Coconut-Crusted Barramundi with Passionfruit Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Flaky barramundi fillets coated in a crispy coconut crust, paired with a tangy passionfruit salsa that brightens the dish with tropical flair. This australian-inspired seafood ready in about 35 minutes blends (6-ounce each) barramundi fillets, coconut flour, breadcrumbs into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Australian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a shallow dish, mix coconut flour, breadcrumbs, grated coconut, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Set aside.
  2. Step 2: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place 4 barramundi fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Dab each fillet with 1 tsp olive oil, then press into the coconut mixture until fully coated.
  3. Step 3: Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the crust is golden and the fish is flaky. Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine passionfruit pulp, red onion, cilantro, and 1 tbsp lime juice. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
  4. Step 4: Serve the barramundi with the passionfruit salsa spooned over the top.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Coconut-Crusted Barramundi with Passionfruit Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (15 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Coconut-Crusted Barramundi with Passionfruit Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Coconut-Crusted Barramundi with Passionfruit Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Coconut-Crusted Barramundi with Passionfruit Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Coconut-Crusted Barramundi with Passionfruit Salsa?

Australian seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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