Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia: A Delicious and Easy Dinner Recipe
Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia is a flavorful dish that brings together the freshness of lemon, the richness of butter, and the aromatic touch of garlic. This meal is not only quick to prepare, but it also delivers an impressive taste that is sure to please your family and friends. Let’s dive into why you should add this dish to your dinner rotation!
Why make this recipe?
This recipe combines healthy tilapia with vibrant flavors, making it a nutritious option for dinner. The ingredients are simple, and the cooking process is straightforward, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Plus, who can resist a dish that smells as good as it tastes? 🍋🧄🧈
How to prepare Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia
Here’s everything you need to know to prepare this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets 🐟
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter 🧈
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 lemon, juiced 🍋
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the tilapia fillets in a baking dish. Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over the fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to serve Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia
This dish is best served warm. Pair your tilapia with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover lemon garlic butter sauce over your sides for extra flavor! 🍚🥦
How to store Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia
If you have leftovers, allow the tilapia to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. When reheating, be sure to warm it gently to avoid drying out the fish.
Tips for preparing Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia
- Freshness is key: Use fresh garlic and lemons for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook: Tilapia cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like dill or thyme for additional flavor!
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider adding some vegetables to the baking dish, such as asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers, which will roast beautifully along with the tilapia. 🥗
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen tilapia fillets?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen tilapia fillets. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
Q2: What can I use instead of tilapia?
A2: Other white fish such as cod, haddock, or sole can also work well in this recipe.
Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A3: Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as olive oil or vegan butter, for a dairy-free option.
Enjoy your delicious Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Tilapia—it’s sure to become a favorite! 🥳