Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce

Posted on May 30, 2025

Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce

Are you looking for a delightful dinner option that is both delicious and nutritious? Look no further than these Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce. This recipe combines the freshness of white fish with the crispy texture of golden-brown meatballs, all served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa and topped with vibrant salad greens. The zesty tartar dipping sauce brings an extra layer of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, these fish meatballs are easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor and health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

  • Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and cooking time of 20 minutes, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
  • Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean white fish, fresh herbs, and wholesome breadcrumbs, these meatballs are a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs.
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences. Add your favorite spices or herbs to make it your own!
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs are great for meal prep. Make a big batch and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids love the crispy texture and fun shape of meatballs, making this a hit for the entire family.
  • Delicious Dipping Sauce: The zesty tartar sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements the fish beautifully, providing a fresh and tangy contrast.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re a fan of seafood or simply looking to incorporate more fish into your diet, this Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce recipe is a must-try. Here’s why:

  • High in Protein: Each serving of these fish meatballs provides a healthy dose of protein, making it a great choice for post-workout meals or for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
  • Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Using white fish like cod or haddock ensures you get valuable omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Serve these meatballs over rice, quinoa, or even in a wrap. The possibilities are endless, making it a versatile dish for different occasions.
  • Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this easy yet stunning dish. The vibrant colors and flavors will make your meal memorable.
  • Allergy-Friendly: This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by substituting the breadcrumbs with gluten-free options, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To create the Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce, gather the following ingredients and utensils:

Ingredients

  • For the Fish Meatballs:
    • 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), finely chopped
    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
    • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 large egg
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • Vegetable oil for frying
  • For the Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce:
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
    • 1 tablespoon capers, finely chopped
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For Serving:
    • Cooked rice or quinoa
    • Fresh salad greens
    • Lemon wedges

Necessary Utensils

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Plate for meatballs
  • Paper towels for draining

Detailed Recipe Steps

Ready to make your Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce? Follow these detailed steps:

For the Fish Meatballs:

  1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped fish, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
  2. Form the Meatballs: With your hands, take a portion of the mixture and roll it into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate, ensuring they are spaced out to avoid sticking.
  3. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it shimmers. This indicates that the oil is hot enough for frying.
  4. Fry the Meatballs: Carefully add the meatballs to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the meatballs and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

For the Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, capers, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice or relish.

To Serve:

  1. Prepare Bowls: In individual serving bowls, add a portion of cooked rice or quinoa as the base.
  2. Add Greens: Top with fresh salad greens for a refreshing crunch.
  3. Place Meatballs: Add a few crispy fish meatballs on top of the greens, creating a colorful and appetizing presentation.
  4. Serve with Sauce: Serve with a side of zesty tartar dipping sauce and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQs

What type of fish is best for fish meatballs?

White fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia work best for fish meatballs due to their mild flavor and flaky texture. They hold well together when mixed with other ingredients.

Can I bake the fish meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the fish meatballs! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Can I make the tartar sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the tartar sauce a few hours or even a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in the fish meatballs?

You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes, panko, or even ground oats to create a gluten-free version. Just ensure the substitute has a similar texture for the best results.

How long can I store leftover fish meatballs?

Leftover fish meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 2 months.

Conclusion

In summary, the Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce is a fantastic recipe that balances flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress guests, this dish is sure to deliver. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends! For more delicious ideas, check out our Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Spicy Lemon Ranch and Crispy Fish Bites with Tartar and Lemon Aioli. Happy cooking!

For more inspiration, don’t forget to check out this Pinterest board filled with delicious recipes!

Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce

Crispy Fish Meatballs Bowls with Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce

Deliciously crispy fish meatballs served in a bowl with fresh greens, cooked grains, and a tangy tartar dipping sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb White fish fillets (cod or haddock), finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup Chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup Finely chopped onion
  • 2 Garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 Large egg
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Zesty Tartar Dipping Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons Dill pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon Capers, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

For Serving

  • Cooked rice or quinoa as base for each bowl
  • Fresh salad greens for topping
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped fish, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
  • With your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate.
  • In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
  • Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs in batches (do not overcrowd the pan). Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, capers, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the zesty tartar dipping sauce.
  • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • In individual serving bowls, add a portion of cooked rice or quinoa as the base.
  • Top with fresh salad greens.
  • Add a few crispy fish meatballs on top of the greens.
  • Serve with a side of zesty tartar dipping sauce and lemon wedges for an extra zing.

Notes

For a healthier option, consider baking the meatballs instead of frying.
Keyword fish, meatballs, Tartar Sauce

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