Oven-Baked Tilapia with Lemon and Herbs Recipe
Introduction
Baked tilapia is a quick and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines a zesty spice blend with lemon and olive oil to create tender, flaky fish that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 fillets tilapia
- 1 tbsp paprika (choose your preferred heat level)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Salt, to taste
- 1½ tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried parsley, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- Step 2: Place the tilapia fillets on a plate. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over them, turning to coat evenly.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the prepared spice mix over both sides of each fillet, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Step 4: Arrange the seasoned fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque.
- Step 6: Remove from oven and optionally squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired, then serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the spice mix.
- Try using fresh herbs like dill or thyme instead of dried parsley for a brighter taste.
- If you prefer, substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus twist.
- Make sure not to overcook the fish to keep it moist and tender.
Storage
Store any leftover baked tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, taking care not to dry out the fish.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tilapia fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking.
What can I serve with baked tilapia?
Baked tilapia pairs well with grains like brown rice, white rice, or quinoa, and roasted or sautéed vegetables. A fresh salad also makes a great side.
PrintOven-Baked Tilapia with Lemon and Herbs Recipe
This Baked Tilapia recipe features tender fillets seasoned with a flavorful blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried parsley, and lemon juice. The fish is lightly coated in olive oil and baked to perfection in the oven, resulting in a flaky, zesty, and healthy seafood dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. Perfect as a light dinner served alongside grains and vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 22-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Tilapia and Seasoning
- 4 fillets Tilapia
- 1 tbsp Paprika (use variety based on preferred heat level)
- ½ tsp Garlic Powder
- ½ tsp Onion Powder
- ¼ tsp Black Pepper Powder
- ½ tsp Dried Parsley
- Salt, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1½ tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper powder, dried parsley, and salt. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly and set the spice blend aside for later use.
- Coat Tilapia Fillets: Place the tilapia fillets on a plate and drizzle evenly with olive oil and lemon juice. Massage the fillets gently to ensure an even coating, which will infuse the fish with a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Season the Fillets: Sprinkle the prepared spice mix evenly over both sides of each tilapia fillet. Make sure each fillet is fully coated to maximize the flavor.
- Arrange on Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish. Arrange the seasoned tilapia fillets in a single layer on the tray, ensuring they are spaced evenly for consistent cooking.
- Bake the Tilapia: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking tray with the fillets into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the fillets.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the tray from the oven once the fish is cooked. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and garnish with fresh cilantro for added brightness before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the paprika variety to control the heat level of this dish, using sweet, smoked, or hot paprika as preferred.
- Using parchment paper on the baking tray helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Check the fish at around 12 minutes to avoid overcooking; the fish should flake easily with a fork.
- Pair baked tilapia with grains like brown rice, white rice, or quinoa, and serve alongside roasted or sautéed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley make excellent garnishes and can enhance the flavor.
Keywords: baked tilapia, healthy fish recipe, easy seafood recipe, oven baked fish, tilapia fillets, low fat dinner, quick dinner fish, paprika fish seasoning
