7 Easy Fish Recipes for Lent

If you observe Lent (the period between Mardi Gras and Easter), you’re probably getting ready to go meatless for the next seven Fridays. Traditionally, that means fish is at the center of the dinner plate. I grew up with a tradition of visiting the local fish-and-chips takeout spot in my New England neighborhood. These days I like to cook something myself. I’ll pick up a couple filets of fresh salmon or cod from my local seafood market or the fish counter at the grocery store, and cook a dish that is simple, but still delicious.

These seven recipes are some of my favorites, and perfect for all your Fridays until April.

Cod is often overshadowed by salmon, which is a shame. Given its mild flavor, the fish is arguably even more versatile and crowd-pleasing. Here you bake it with sliced lemon, lots of garlic, and a mix of fresh herbs for something that feels light and tastes totally delicious.

Get the recipe: Baked Cod with Lemon, Garlic, and Herbs

Honey, soy sauce, garlic, and lime come together to make a fast and fresh glaze for pan-seared fillets. This easy salmon recipe might just be come your new go-to.

Get the recipe: 5-Ingredient Honey-Glazed Salmon

If you’ve only ever had mahi mahi at a restaurant, but are worried about cooking with it, you should know that it’s dead-simple to buy and prepare. Here, the flaky white fish is cooked with loads of garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.

Get the recipe: How to Cook Mahi Mahi: The Best, Simplest Method

Poaching salmon in buttermilk yields amazing results. The natural tang of buttermilk marries so well with the fish! Combined with lemon, shallots, bay leaves, and garlic, it makes for an extra-special dinner.

Get the recipe: Buttermilk-Poached Salmon

As I said, I grew up eating fish and chips every Friday during Lent, and it still has a place in my heart. So I’m a big fan of this wholesome, homemade twist on the dish. Either cod or tilapia can be used to make the fish fingers, which bake right in the oven with the sweet potato fries.

Get the recipe: Baked Fish Fingers and Sweet Potato Wedges

Canned salmon is an affordable alternative to fresh fillets, and just as nutritious. It can be transformed into these golden-brown, flavor-packed fritters in next to no time.

Get the recipe: How to Make the Absolute Easiest Salmon Patties

Even if you make #tacotuesday part of your regular meal plan, it’s worth saving these for Friday night. The fish here is crispy and delicious. Serve these tacos with sliced avocado, and cut down prep with store-bought coleslaw and pico de gallo.

Get the recipe: Easy, Crispy Baja Fish Tacos