Description
This Baked Tilapia recipe is a simple, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy tender white fish. The fillets are seasoned with fresh herbs, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil before being baked to perfection in the oven. Ready in under 40 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner served with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Tilapia and Seasoning
- 4 tilapia fillets (fresh or thawed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, dill, or thyme (or a mix), chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to cook the fish quickly while keeping it moist and tender.
- Prepare the Fish: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the olive oil and seasonings stick better and prevents the fish from becoming soggy.
- Season Generously: Brush the fillets lightly with olive oil, then drizzle fresh lemon juice over each piece. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs evenly across the fish fillets. If you like, add paprika or chili flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
- Bake the Tilapia: Place the seasoned fillets in a greased baking dish or on parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the baked tilapia rest for a minute or two to retain moisture, then serve immediately. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or lemon wedges and pair with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or salad.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry before seasoning helps the flavors adhere better and prevents sogginess.
- Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
- Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for varied flavors.
- Oven temperatures can vary, so check the fish starting at 12 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.