Lemon Butter Tilapia

Lemon Butter Tilapia is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light dinner or lunch. With tender, flaky tilapia fillets draped in a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce, this dish pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. It’s simple to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• Tilapia Fillets (4, about 6 oz each)
  Mild and flaky, tilapia is the star of this dish. Use fresh or thawed frozen fillets.
• Butter (4 tablespoons)
  Creates the luscious base for the sauce and enhances the tilapia’s natural flavor.
• Lemon Juice (3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed)
  Adds a bright, tangy flavor to balance the richness of the butter.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
  Infuses the dish with savory, aromatic warmth.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon)
  Adds a subtle smoky flavor and enhances the color of the fish.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
  Essential for seasoning both the fish and the sauce.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)
  Helps the fish cook evenly and develop a light, golden crust.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
  For garnish and a fresh, herbaceous finish.
• Lemon Slices (optional, for garnish)
  Adds visual appeal and extra lemony flavor.

How to Make Lemon Butter Tilapia

Step 1: Season the Fish
Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Fish
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tilapia fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer the sauce for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the tilapia fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top to coat. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices, if desired.

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Spatula for flipping the fish
• Knife and cutting board for chopping parsley and slicing lemon

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! Cod, sole, or haddock are excellent substitutes, as they also have a mild flavor and flaky texture.

What can I serve with Lemon Butter Tilapia?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or olive oil for a dairy-free version.

How do I know when the fish is cooked?
Tilapia is done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I add other flavors to the sauce?
Absolutely! A splash of white wine, capers, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add extra depth to the sauce.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best to enjoy Lemon Butter Tilapia fresh. However, you can freeze cooked tilapia for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Can I bake the tilapia instead?
Yes! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the seasoned tilapia in a greased baking dish, and bake for 10-12 minutes. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the fish after baking.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Tilapia is a simple yet elegant dish that’s packed with flavor and comes together in minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a healthy, satisfying meal. If you try this recipe, share it on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for your next cooking inspiration. Enjoy!