Lemon Pepper Tilapia : This dish brings together tender tilapia fillets with a delightful burst of citrusy lemon and the perfect cracked black pepper ready in under 30 minutes. Pair it with your favorite side – like a crisp green salad or buttery garlic rice for a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Why Lemon-Pepper Tilapia?
Tilapia is a mild-flavored fish, making it a great canvas for bold seasonings like lemon and black pepper. The combination enhances the natural sweetness of the fish while adding a refreshing tang. Plus, it’s a low-calorie, protein-rich option that fits perfectly into various dietary preferences.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Lemon-Pepper Tilapia
Here are some expert tips to make your Lemon-Pepper Tilapia irresistible:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and cracked black pepper elevate the dish, offering bright and bold flavors.
- Choose High-Quality Tilapia: Opt for fresh or frozen tilapia fillets that are firm and free from any fishy odor.
- Pat the Fish Dry: Before seasoning, pat the fillets dry with a paper towel to help the seasonings stick better and prevent excess moisture during cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Tilapia cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to ensure it stays tender and flaky.
- Enhance with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or dill on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
Variations of Lemon-Pepper Tilapia
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy twist.
- Parmesan Crust: Top with grated Parmesan before baking for a crispy, cheesy finish.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate thyme or oregano into the seasoning mix for an herby flavor profile.
- Grilled Tilapia: Grill the fillets over medium heat for a smoky touch.
How to Serve Lemon-Pepper Tilapia
Pair your Lemon-Pepper Tilapia with sides that complement its zesty flavors. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or sautéed zucchini.
- Carbs: Fluffy white rice, quinoa, or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigeration: Store leftover fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked tilapia for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven or a skillet over low heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen tilapia?
Absolutely! Just ensure the fillets are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
What can I use instead of fresh lemon?
Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor.
Is tilapia healthy?
Yes! Tilapia is a lean source of protein, low in fat, and rich in nutrients like selenium and vitamin D.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply use olive oil instead of butter.
What’s the best way to tell when tilapia is done?
A: The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. It’s ready when the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Lemon Pepper Tilapia
Lemon-Pepper Tilapia : This dish brings together tender tilapia fillets with a delightful burst of citrusy lemon and the perfect cracked black pepper ready in under 30 minutes. Pair it with your favorite side - like a crisp green salad or buttery garlic rice for a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 6 tilapia fillets (6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup minced fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat your oven to 425°F. Arrange the tilapia fillets on a 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
- Melt butter in the microwave, then stir in lemon zest and juice. Drizzle this over the fish.
- Sprinkle the fillets with garlic salt, paprika, and black pepper for a burst of flavor.
- Pop the fish into the oven, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes. It’s ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bright, herby touch.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 255Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 4gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 107mgSodium 392mgCarbohydrates 1gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 45g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Lemon-Pepper Tilapia is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers a punch of flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to add more healthy options to your menu, this recipe is a must-try. Experiment with the variations and pairings to make it your own. Once you master this dish, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation!
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