Fish Sticks

Ditch the frozen TV dinners for good—these homemade Fish Sticks are just as easy and twice as tasty!

If you’re looking for an easy, high-quality dinner that even your kids will love, have I got a throwback for you—fish sticks! Fish sticks were such a staple in my own childhood. On Friday nights, my sisters and I would excitedly stack our plates with frozen finger foods like fish sticks, mozzarella sticks, and French fries. We’d share all the dipping sauces and plop in front of the television to enjoy whatever new episodes were premiering on Disney Channel that weekend. I never understood how anyone could dislike them. But then, as an adult, the appeal has been lost on me, too. Until now!

These fish sticks are not the flimsy, frozen, fried food you might remember. This recipe uses fresh cod and panko breadcrumbs to recreate the nostalgia of our youth with elevated, “adult” ingredients. Add a squeeze of lemon and your favorite dipping sauce, and you have a bona fide meal.

Fish sticks were actually invented as a marketing tactic back in the 50s to push the appeal of seafood, which at the time was seen as a “lesser” option for mealtime. As a Southern California girl, I almost can’t believe anyone would ever think of seafood as a consolation prize, but that’s just me. Even as a kid, I loved frozen fish sticks as an easy dinner option. Now, I’d much rather choose a healthier alternative for dinner, but hey, these homemade fish sticks are about to change the game!

Are Fish Sticks Healthy?

If we’re comparing this recipe to your old-school fish sticks, it’s definitely the healthier choice. These fish sticks are made with lean protein, panko breadcrumbs, and minimal added ingredients to keep them as healthy as a finger food can be! Panko breadcrumbs are used as an alternative to breadcrumbs because they tend to crisp nicely with less oil, and this recipe calls for baking the fish rather than frying.

Don’t Forget The Tartar Sauce!

This wouldn’t be a recipe for fish sticks without a good dipping sauce, would it? Traditionally, fish sticks are paired with tartar sauce—a mayo-based condiment served best with seafood dishes. Tartar sauce generally consists of mayo, relish, pickles, dill, capers, and lemon juice. You can make your own Tartar Sauce easily from scratch or buy it at the store!

Serving Suggestions

However you choose to enjoy these fish sticks, you need a good dipping sauce. If you’re not keen on tartar sauce, try this Onion Ring Sauce, or add lots of lemon for a subtle tang. Fish sticks pair well with a fresh coleslaw, like this Southern Coleslaw Recipe. Or you can opt for a classic “fish and chips” dish with Homemade French Fries!

Recipe

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