Garlic Lemon Butter Tilapia

Garlic Lemon Butter Tilapia is an incredibly easy and delicious seafood dish that is full of vibrant flavors. The tilapia fillets are baked in a rich and zesty garlic lemon butter sauce, which makes for a perfectly light, yet satisfying meal. The mild flavor of tilapia pairs beautifully with the bright lemon and savory garlic, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you serve it with rice, vegetables, or a simple salad, this dish is sure to impress without taking up much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2-3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (or more to taste)

• 1 tsp sweet paprika (or red chili powder for a spicy kick)

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 4 (6 oz) tilapia fillets

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley leaves, chopped (for garnish)

• Lemon slices, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Tilapia:

1. Wash the tilapia fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Arrange the fillets in a baking dish.

Make the Sauce:

1. In a bowl, mix together the lemon juice, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika (or red chili powder), salt, and pepper.

2. Add the zest of one lemon to the sauce for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Assemble the Dish:

1. Pour the sauce mixture over the tilapia fillets, making sure the fish is evenly coated.

2. Arrange lemon slices between the fillets for added flavor and garnish.

Bake the Tilapia:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Bake the fish for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking the fish to prevent it from becoming dry.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with the pan drippings over the fillets.

2. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, roasted vegetables, or a side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: For a spicier version, use red chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the sauce to add some heat.

• Herb Variations: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an herbal twist.

• Other Fish Options: While tilapia works perfectly for this recipe, you can substitute it with other mild white fish like cod, flounder, or sole.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen tilapia, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any mild white fish, such as cod, flounder, or sole. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

How do I know when the tilapia is fully cooked?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist and tender.

Can I grill the tilapia instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the tilapia. Simply brush the fish with the garlic lemon butter sauce and grill over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on thickness.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the fish for up to an hour before cooking. However, tilapia is best when cooked right before serving.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of butter?

Yes, you can use olive oil or a butter substitute, but using butter will give it the rich flavor that complements the lemon and garlic in this dish.

How can I add more flavor to the dish?

You can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the fish before baking for an extra layer of flavor, or drizzle with a bit of honey for a sweet contrast to the tartness of the lemon.

Conclusion

Garlic Lemon Butter Tilapia is a flavorful, light, and simple dish that delivers on taste without requiring much time in the kitchen. The combination of buttery garlic sauce and fresh lemon creates a vibrant dish that pairs perfectly with rice, vegetables, or a light salad. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your taste, making it a go-to option for a quick dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress!

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