SECRET INGREDIENT Cracker crumbs help bind the fish mixture so it holds together when cooked; they also lend a crunchy coating to the cakes, which are dredged in the crumbs before baking. Put the crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin or small heavy skillet, or pulse in a food processor until coarsely ground.

　　

Ingredients

serves 8

　　3 tablespoons olive oil

　　2 pounds tilapia fillets (about 6)

　　Coarse salt and ground pepper

　　2 large eggs, lightly beaten

　　1/2 cup light mayonnaise

　　1/2 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus sprigs for garnish (optional)

　　1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons)

　　3 tablespoons prepared horseradish

　　1 1/2 cups coarse cracker crumbs (from about 36 crackers)

　　Tartar sauce, for serving (optional)

　　

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush each of two rimmed baking sheets with 1 1/2 teaspoons oil. Place fillets on sheets; season with salt and pepper. Roast until cooked through, 10 to 15 minutes. Let cool completely; pat dry with paper towels. With a fork, flake fish into small pieces.

　　

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine eggs, mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, and horseradish. Fold in fish and 1/2 cup cracker crumbs; season with salt and pepper. Place remaining 1 cup crumbs on a plate. Form 16 cakes, using about 1/4 cup fish mixture for each. Gently dredge cakes in crumbs, pressing to help adhere.

　　

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high. Place 8 cakes in skillet; cook until golden brown, 4 to 6 minutes per side. Transfer to a platter. Repeat with remaining tablespoon oil and cakes. Serve with tartar sauce and parsley sprigs, if desired.

　　

Freezing Fish Cakes

Step 4

Place uncooked cakes on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Wrap each in plastic; transfer to resealable freezer bags. Freeze up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in refrigerator before cooking.

　　

nutrition information

Step 5

(Per Serving)

　　

Step 6

Calories: 286

　　

Step 7

Fat: 14.8g (2.7g Saturated Fat)

　　

Step 8

Protein: 25.9g

　　

Step 9

Carbohydrates: 12.5g

　　

Step 10

Fiber: 0.8g

　　Everyday Food: Light