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Simple Baked Tilapia with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

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4.3 from 55 reviews

This baked tilapia recipe is a quick and easy fish dinner perfect for busy weeknights. The tilapia fillets are seasoned with a flavorful blend of garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, smoked paprika, and butter, then baked to tender perfection. Ready in just 15 minutes, it makes a light, healthy, and delicious meal that pairs well with various sides.

  • Total Time: 15-17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Tilapia and Seasoning

  • 4 tilapia fillets or loins, thawed completely
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Butter Mixture

  • 4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Extra lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the tilapia evenly.
  2. Prepare Butter Mixture: In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Season Tilapia: Place the tilapia fillets in a baking dish. Season both sides of each fillet evenly with salt, ground black pepper, and smoked paprika for a balanced flavor.
  4. Apply Butter Mixture: Pour the butter mixture over the fillets. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the top of each piece, ensuring the seasoning flavors are absorbed during baking.
  5. Bake the Tilapia: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (62°C) to ensure it is thoroughly cooked. For a golden finish, optionally place the fillets under the broiler for a couple of minutes.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked tilapia from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices to add brightness and extra flavor, then serve immediately.

Notes

  • Ensure tilapia fillets are fully thawed before baking to promote even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for safe internal temperature (145°F / 62°C).
  • Optional broiling gives a nice color but watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
  • Can substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter version.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/simple-baked-tilapia-with-lemon-and-garlic-recipe/