Baked Tilapia with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
This baked tilapia recipe offers a simple, flavorful, and healthy way to prepare tender white fish fillets. Infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley, it’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. The fish is gently cooked in the oven until perfectly flaky and topped with a bright, buttery sauce that enhances its mild flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 6 tilapia fillets (6 ounces each)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray, for greasing the baking dish
Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the bottom of a baking dish with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Make garlic lemon butter sauce: Melt butter over low heat in a small skillet. Add the crushed garlic and sauté gently for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice, combining all flavors.
- Season the fish: Place the tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish. Season each fillet evenly with kosher salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring balanced flavor.
- Apply sauce to fish: Pour the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the seasoned tilapia fillets, coating the fish thoroughly for maximum taste infusion.
- Bake the fish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the tilapia at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the baked tilapia from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a vibrant, fresh finish. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh parsley with dried parsley if fresh is unavailable, but reduce quantity to 1 tablespoon dried.
- For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
- Ensure the fish does not overcook to keep it moist and tender; check at 12 minutes and adjust timing as needed.
- This recipe can be paired with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
