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Seared Lemon Butter Tilapia Recipe

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4.2 from 41 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Seared Lemon Butter Tilapia is a light and flavorful seafood dinner featuring tender tilapia fillets pan-seared until golden and finished with a rich garlic lemon butter sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Fish

  • 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)

Seasoning

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Garnish

  • Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

  1. Season the Tilapia: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to build a flavorful base.
  2. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking to ensure a good sear.
  3. Sear the Tilapia: Carefully add the seasoned tilapia fillets to the hot skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the outside is golden brown and the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  5. Add Lemon: Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer briefly to meld the flavors.
  6. Finish the Dish: Return the tilapia fillets to the skillet. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fish continuously for about 1 minute to heat through and coat the fillets with sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top of the fish for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately with lemon slices on the side for extra brightness.

Notes

  • Avoid overcooking the tilapia to keep it tender and moist.
  • Serve alongside rice, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
  • Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish to the rich lemon butter sauce.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://myhomemadecooking.com/seared-lemon-butter-tilapia-recipe/