Hot Mexican-Style Fish

Cook: 35 min Serves: 5 Cuisine: Mexican

A flavorful, spicy Mexican-style fish dish featuring salsa, olives, and melted butter, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with a zestful kick.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 16 oz. frozen, skinless halibut or haddock fillets
  • 2 Tbsp. margarine or butter
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 8 oz. jar salsa
  • 2.2 oz. can sliced ripe olives

Instructions

  1. Place frozen fish on a 20 x 12-inch piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil and seal securely.
  2. Cook on an ungreased cookie sheet in a 450°F oven for 25 minutes.
  3. Turn back the foil and pour melted margarine or butter over the fish.
  4. Sprinkle with salt.
  5. Top with salsa and drained sliced ripe olives.
  6. Uncover and cook until the sauce is hot, about 10 minutes.
  7. Serve with lemon or lime wedges.

Tips & Substitutions

For a quicker prep, use fresh fish if available, but adjust cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicier salsa. Margarine can be substituted with olive oil for a healthier option. This dish can also be enhanced with chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this flavorful fish dish with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Zesty Ripe Olive Dip as an appetizer. For a complete meal, consider offering Low-Fat Tortilla Chips For Dips alongside, creating a delicious spread that complements the vibrant flavors of the fish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to ensure it heats through without drying out. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the fish rubbery.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Hot Mexican-Style Fish contains roughly 218 calories, with 4g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2167mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).

218 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.7g 7% DV
Total Fat 13.8g 18% DV
Carbs 21.7g 8% DV
Fiber 0.7g 2% DV
Sugar 1.8g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2167.2mg 94% DV
Potassium 424.8mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 8.2mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 30mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 1.5mg 2% DV
Calcium 119.7mg 9% DV
Iron 3.9mg 21% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Fish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh fish instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh fish can be used instead of frozen. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as fresh fish typically cooks faster. Start checking for doneness around 15 minutes to ensure it doesn't dry out.

What type of salsa works best for this recipe?

A medium to spicy salsa works best, but you can choose based on your heat preference. Homemade mango salsa can also be a fantastic alternative, adding a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the fish beautifully.

Can this recipe be made in advance?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the fish and toppings in advance. Assemble the dish up to the point of cooking and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cook it within 24 hours for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Mexican recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →