Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a simple and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The tender tilapia fillets are infused with a zesty lemon garlic marinade and baked alongside sweet onions and peppers for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

• 4 large Tilapia fillets
• 1 large onion (thick sliced)
• 2 cups peppers (cut into medium thick strips)
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or mixed dry herbs)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (substitute with regular paprika if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3-4 fresh lemon slices

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Italian seasoning, paprika, onion powder (if using), salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and position the rack in the upper third of the oven.
3. Step 3: Arrange the sliced onions and pepper strips evenly in a baking tray in a single layer.
4. Step 4: Place the tilapia fillets on top of the vegetables. Generously brush the marinade over both sides of each fillet.
5. Step 5: Place the fresh lemon slices over the fish for added flavor.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Step 7: Serve the baked tilapia on a bed of rice with the roasted vegetables. Spoon any leftover lemon garlic sauce from the pan over the top for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika if you prefer a milder smoky flavor.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh finish.
• If you don’t have tilapia, this recipe works well with other mild white fish like cod or haddock.

Storage

Store leftover baked tilapia and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a low oven to avoid drying out the fish.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the marinade up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. This helps the flavors meld and makes the cooking process quicker.

What can I serve with baked tilapia?

Serving the fish over rice is a classic choice, but you can also pair it with quinoa, couscous, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 85 reviews

• Author: Rafael
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make seafood dish featuring tender tilapia fillets baked with a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Enhanced with sautéed onions and peppers, this recipe delivers a healthy and vibrant meal perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fish and Marinade

• 4 large Tilapia fillets
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or mixed dry herbs)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (substitute with regular paprika if unavailable)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables and Garnish

• 1 large onion, thick sliced
• 2 cups peppers, cut into medium thick strips (bell peppers recommended)
• 3–4 fresh lemon slices

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Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and position the rack in the upper third of the oven to ensure even baking.
3. Arrange vegetables: On a baking tray, spread the thick sliced onions and pepper strips in a single, even layer to create a flavorful base for the fish.
4. Place the tilapia fillets: Lay the tilapia fillets over the bed of onions and peppers. Generously brush the prepared marinade over both sides of each fillet to infuse them with the lemon garlic flavor.
5. Add lemon slices: Place 3-4 fresh lemon slices over the fillets to add brightness and additional flavor during baking.
6. Bake the fish: Bake the tray in the upper third of the preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve: Serve the baked tilapia on a bed of rice alongside your favorite vegetables. Spoon the leftover lemon butter sauce from the pan over the fish for extra taste.

Notes

• Ensure not to overcook the tilapia to keep it tender and flaky; check at 10 minutes and adjust if necessary.
• Use fresh lemon juice and lemon slices for the best flavor impact.
• You can substitute the peppers with other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes if desired.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the marinade.
• Leftover sauce can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked tilapia, lemon garlic tilapia, easy fish recipe, healthy seafood, lemon butter fish, tilapia marinade, baked fish with vegetables