Lemon Butter Baked Tilapia Recipe
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If you’re looking for a quick and healthy fish dinner, this Lemon Butter Baked Tilapia is the perfect solution. With its zesty lemon flavor and rich butter sauce, it’s one of those tilapia recipes that will quickly become a family favorite. This dish is not just easy to prepare, but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal.
Imagine tender tilapia fillets baked to perfection, drenched in a luscious lemon butter sauce. This recipe takes only minutes to prepare, and the result is a flaky fish that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a newcomer to the kitchen, this baked tilapia recipe is as simple as it gets.
Perfect for busy evenings, this tilapia recipe showcases the best of easy cooking. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that will impress everyone at the table. You’ll find that this dish checks all the boxes for deliciousness and healthiness.
Exploring the Delights of Lemon Butter Baked Tilapia
Lemon Butter Baked Tilapia is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings fresh flavors to the dinner table. This dish highlights the flaky texture of tilapia, which pairs beautifully with the zesty and rich lemon butter sauce.
When you think of healthy fish dinner recipes, tilapia often comes to mind due to its light nature and versatility. The addition of a smooth lemon butter sauce elevates this baked fish recipe, making it an appealing choice for both casual weeknight dinners and more festive occasions.
A Closer Look at Tilapia
Tilapia is known for its mild flavor and lean protein content, making it a popular choice among those seeking healthy meal options. This fish is not only easy to prepare but also readily available in most grocery stores.
Its delicate texture allows it to absorb flavors well, especially when paired with vibrant ingredients like lemon and garlic. When baked, tilapia creates a dish that is light yet satisfying, perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.
The Allure of Lemon Butter Sauce
Lemon butter sauce is a classic culinary combination that enhances a variety of dishes, especially fish. The tanginess of fresh lemon juice complements the richness of melted butter, creating a balance that is simply delightful.
This sauce is not only easy to whip up but also adds a glossy finish to the baked tilapia, making it visually appealing. The hints of garlic and paprika bring warmth to the sauce, enriching the overall flavor experience.
Easy Preparation for Busy Cooks
One of the standout features of this baked tilapia recipe is its simplicity. Preparing Lemon Butter Baked Tilapia can be done in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy evenings when time is of the essence.
With a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, even those new to cooking can achieve a delicious outcome. The ease of preparation does not compromise the quality of the dish, ensuring that family and guests will be pleased with each bite.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
To round out this delightful fish recipe, consider serving it with a variety of sides that complement the lightness of the tilapia. Fresh vegetables, a light salad, or even a side of rice would pair beautifully.
Garnishing with fresh parsley and lemon wedges not only adds a pop of color to the plate but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile. A well-paired side can elevate the meal, making it feel more substantial while still maintaining its healthy essence.
Health Benefits of Baked Tilapia
Incorporating baked tilapia into your diet comes with numerous health benefits. As a lean source of protein, it supports muscle maintenance and overall health. Additionally, the healthy fats from the butter, when used in moderation, can contribute to a balanced diet.
The dish is also low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Including fish as a regular part of your meals can encourage heart health and provide essential nutrients without excess calories.
Delicious and Simple Lemon Butter Baked Tilapia
This Lemon Butter Baked Tilapia features delicate fish fillets that are seasoned and then baked until flaky. The addition of lemon butter sauce enhances the natural flavors, making it a standout option among fish dinner recipes. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for those looking for healthy meal options.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the Fish: Place the tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the fillets, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 1g