Why You Should Never Reheat Fish in The Microwave

Fish is a delicate dish, often praised for its rich flavors and subtle textures. But when it comes to leftovers, there’s a common kitchen crime that many commit: reheating it in the microwave. While it may seem like the quick and easy solution, microwaving fish can result in culinary catastrophe—and not just for your taste buds.

The Microwave Is A Fish's Worst Nightmare

When you think of microwaving leftovers, you probably imagine it as a harmless convenience. After all, it works just fine for pizza and soups, right? Well, fish doesn’t quite play by the same rules. Microwaves heat food unevenly, and fish, with its delicate flesh, is particularly vulnerable to overcooking. What’s worse, the heat doesn’t dissipate evenly, causing parts of the fish to be piping hot while others remain cool. This means that instead of gently warming up your salmon or cod, you end up with one part that’s scorched and dry, and another that’s lukewarm and soggy.

Texture Goes From Flaky to Funky

Fish has a naturally tender, flaky texture when cooked properly, but toss it in the microwave, and it’s like sending it through a metamorphosis you didn’t sign up for. The high heat from microwaving causes the proteins in the fish to tighten up—so instead of that melt-in-your-mouth experience, you’re left with a rubbery, chewy mess. Have you ever tried microwaving a delicate piece of sea bass, only to wonder if you accidentally reheated a piece of your shoe? Yeah, that’s not how fish is meant to be enjoyed.

The Fine Line Between Ocean Breeze and Fishy Fog

If the texture alone isn’t enough to make you reconsider, let’s talk about taste. Reheating fish in the microwave intensifies any lingering fishy odors, turning your kitchen into something akin to a seaside dock—and not in the charming, fresh ocean air kind of way. The microwave’s high heat can break down the natural oils in the fish, leading to a sharp, overpowering flavor that overpowers any seasoning or subtlety the dish once had. So, instead of savoring that hint of lemon and herbs you carefully used, all you’ll taste is fish—and not in the good way.

Is It Bad for Your Health?

While reheating fish in the microwave isn’t going to land you in the emergency room (unless you count being chased out of the office breakroom due to the smell), it’s not the best for maintaining the nutritional integrity of the meal. Overcooking fish in a microwave can break down its omega-3 fatty acids—the same heart-healthy fats that make it such a nutritious choice in the first place. Plus, if you haven’t stored the fish properly, the microwave won’t be able to get rid of any bacteria that may have developed while it was sitting in your fridge. It won’t kill you, but it’s not exactly appetizing either.

How to Reheat Fish Like a Pro

Okay, we’ve established that microwaving fish is a disaster waiting to happen. So, how should you reheat fish without turning it into a chewy, smelly nightmare? The key is gentle heat—low and slow, baby! The best method is to reheat it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C), place the fish in a dish, and cover it with foil to lock in the moisture. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warmed through but not overcooked. If you’re in a hurry, the stovetop can also work wonders—just warm the fish in a skillet over low heat with a bit of olive oil to keep it from drying out. Either way, you’ll preserve the texture and flavor, and save your kitchen from smelling like a fish market at low tide.