There’s something truly delightful about preparing a dish that not only pleases the palate but is also a hit with the entire family. Baked Tilapia with Garlic Butter is one such recipe that has won the hearts of everyone at my dining table. The delicate flavor of tilapia combined with the richness of garlic butter creates a symphony of taste that is both comforting and invigorating. My family couldn’t get enough of it, and even the pickiest eaters asked for seconds. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, sparking conversations and creating memories around the dinner table. The simplicity of the recipe is a bonus, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
To create this mouth-watering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare Baked Tilapia with Garlic Butter:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Stir well to mix the flavors.
- Place the tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture over the tilapia fillets, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Arrange the lemon slices on top of the fillets. This will infuse the fish with a fresh, citrusy aroma as it bakes.
- Bake the fish in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the baked fish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
This recipe yields 4 servings. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option for any day of the week.
Preparation Time
This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. You’ll need about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, which means you can have dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes. It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Serve
Here are a few ideas on how to serve Baked Tilapia with Garlic Butter:
- With Rice: Serve the tilapia over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- With Vegetables: Pair it with steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a balanced meal.
- With Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the fish.
- With Pasta: Toss some pasta with olive oil and herbs, and serve it alongside the tilapia for a hearty meal.
- With Bread: Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread to mop up the buttery sauce.
Additional Tips
To ensure the best results, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose Fresh Fish: Fresh tilapia will yield the best flavor. If fresh is not available, frozen is a good alternative, but ensure it’s properly thawed before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked fish can become dry. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or dill to the garlic butter for a unique twist.
- Use Quality Butter: High-quality butter can make a noticeable difference in the richness and flavor of the dish.
- Experiment with Citrus: While lemon is classic, try using lime or orange slices for a different citrus note.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Tilapia with Garlic Butter:
- Can I use other types of fish? Yes, this recipe works well with other white fish like cod or haddock. Adjust the cooking time as needed since thicker fillets may require a bit more time.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble the dish just before baking for optimal flavor.
- How do I know when the fish is done? The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any sides you serve with it are also gluten-free if necessary.
- Can I add vegetables to the baking dish? Absolutely! Adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini to the baking dish can enhance the flavors and create a complete one-pan meal.