Baked Tilapia Foil recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Fresh tilapia fillets are seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then wrapped in foil and baked to perfection.
Why You’ll Love Baked Tilapia in Foil
- Healthy and Nutrient-Packed: Tilapia is rich in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious meal.
- Bursting with Flavor: The foil locks in juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
- Customizable: You can mix and match seasonings and vegetables to suit your preferences.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil means no messy pans to scrub afterward!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Baked Tilapia in Foil
Choose Fresh Tilapia: Opt for fresh or properly thawed fillets. Fresh tilapia has a mild smell and firm texture. Avoid fillets with a strong fishy odor.
Season Generously: Tilapia is mild, so don’t hold back on seasonings. A combination of garlic, lemon, herbs, and spices works wonders.
Layer Your Ingredients: Start with vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers as the base to infuse the fish with flavor. Place the tilapia on top to ensure even cooking.
Seal the Foil Tightly: Make sure the foil packets are well-sealed to trap steam and cook the fish evenly. This method also enhances the flavor by preventing juices from escaping.
Don’t Overcook: Tilapia cooks quickly; 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C) is usually enough. Overcooking can result in dry fish.
Use Parchment Paper Lining (Optional): To avoid sticking, you can place a sheet of parchment paper inside the foil before adding the ingredients.
Variations to Try
Mediterranean Style: Add olives, capers, and a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Cajun: Use Cajun seasoning, a dash of hot sauce, and corn kernels for a zesty kick.
Asian-Inspired: Swap olive oil for sesame oil, add soy sauce, grated ginger, and thinly sliced green onions.
Garlic Butter: Replace olive oil with melted garlic butter for a rich and indulgent flavor.
How to Serve Baked Tilapia in Foil
- Over Rice: Serve the tilapia and its juices over steamed rice or pilaf for a complete meal.
- With Quinoa or Couscous: These light grains complement the dish beautifully.
- On a Bed of Greens: For a low-carb option, pair it with a fresh spinach or arugula salad.
- With Crusty Bread: Use the flavorful juices from the foil as a dipping sauce.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the fish moist.
Freeze: Baked tilapia can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
Can I bake tilapia without vegetables?
Absolutely! The vegetables are optional but add flavor and texture.
How do I know when the tilapia is done?
The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. A thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can assemble the foil packets a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge. Bake them fresh when ready to serve.
What other fish can I use?
This method works well with cod, haddock, or salmon as alternatives to tilapia.
Baked tilapia Foil
Baked Tilapia Foil recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Fresh tilapia fillets are seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then wrapped in foil and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets (5 oz each)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- Aluminum foil.
Instructions
- Heat to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay out 4 sheets of aluminum foil. Place one tilapia fillet in the center of each.
- Top each fillet with ½ tablespoon of butter, then sprinkle with dill, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.
- Fold the foil over the fish and crimp the edges tightly to seal.
- Arrange packets on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 273Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 112mgSodium 387mgCarbohydrates 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
Baked tilapia in foil is a quick, healthy, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for anyone looking for an easy, flavorful meal. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this dish offers endless opportunities to customize and impress. With its simple preparation, minimal cleanup, and satisfying taste, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.
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