Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce Recipe
This Baked Tilapia in Lemon Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring tender tilapia fillets baked to perfection with a zesty lemon garlic butter marinade, complemented by sautéed onions and peppers. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's an easy and delicious meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
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 (can substitute with regular paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3-4 fresh lemon slices
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, thick sliced
- 2 cups peppers, cut into medium thick strips
Instructions
- 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 pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and position the oven rack in the upper third to ensure even baking and browning.
- Arrange Vegetables: On a baking tray, spread out the thickly sliced onions and pepper strips in a single layer to create a flavorful bed for the tilapia.
- Prepare the Tilapia Fillets: Place the tilapia fillets on top of the vegetables on the baking tray. Generously brush the marinade on both sides of each fillet to ensure maximum flavor.
- Add Lemon Slices: Place fresh lemon slices over and around the tilapia fillets to infuse the fish with citrus aroma during baking.
- Bake the Tilapia: Place the baking tray on the upper third rack in the preheated oven. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 10 to 12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Serve the baked tilapia on a bed of rice accompanied by the roasted vegetables. Spoon the leftover lemon garlic butter sauce from the pan over the fish for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- Do not overcook the tilapia as it can become dry; 10-12 minutes is sufficient depending on thickness.
- Feel free to substitute Italian seasoning with your preferred herb blend.
- Use smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth or regular paprika for a milder flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- You can add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complement this dish.