Sweet And Sour Fish Fillets(Microwave)
A quick, tangy and sweet microwave treat, blending pineapple, soy, and cashews for a perfect bite—ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange fish fillets in a 12 x 8‑inch baking dish.
- Cover with vented plastic wrap and microwave on High for 6 to 7 minutes, rotating halfway, until fish flakes easily.
- Set fish aside.
- In a 1‑quart saucepan, combine brown sugar, cornstarch, chives, and dry mustard.
- Stir in reserved pineapple juice, vinegar, and soy sauce.
- Microwave on High for 1½ to 2 minutes, stirring once or twice, until thickened.
- Stir in pineapple chunks and cashews.
- Drain the fish well.
- Spoon the sauce over the fish and microwave, uncovered, on High for 1 to 2 minutes, until thoroughly heated.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure that the fish fillets are uniform in size for even cooking. If you're out of chives, green onions or scallions can work as a substitute. For a twist, consider adding a touch of ginger or garlic to the sauce. For a lower-sugar option, you can substitute brown sugar with a sugar alternative, adjusting to taste. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sweet and sour fish fillets over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad complements the dish nicely. For an appetizer, consider pairing it with crabmeat cheese muffin appetizer for a delightful seafood-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sweet and sour fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour Fish Fillets(Microwave) contains roughly 313 calories, with 14g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (416% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (215% of the Daily Value), and iron (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 846mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but be sure to defrost them completely before cooking. This will ensure even cooking and help the sauce adhere better to the fish. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave's defrost setting for quicker results.
What type of fish works best for this recipe?
Mild-flavored fish like tilapia, cod, or haddock works best for sweet and sour preparations. These fish have a delicate texture that pairs well with the sweet and tangy sauce. Avoid stronger fish varieties that may overpower the flavors of the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the fish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the fish and reheat the sauce. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the fish tender and flaky.
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).