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Lemon Pepper Baked Tilapia (Ready in 20 Minutes) Recipe

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  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Lemon Pepper Baked Tilapia is a quick and healthy seafood dish, perfect for a light dinner or lunch. Featuring tender tilapia fillets seasoned with zesty lemon and freshly cracked black pepper, baked to flaky perfection in just 20 minutes. This recipe is easy to prepare, bursting with citrus flavor, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables or rice.

Ingredients

Tilapia Fillets

  • 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)

Seasoning

  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for even baking.
  2. Prepare the Tilapia: Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better seasoning adherence.
  3. Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, freshly cracked black pepper, salt, olive oil, and minced garlic. Stir well to create a flavorful marinade.
  4. Season the Fish: Place the fillets in a baking dish and brush both sides with the lemon pepper mixture evenly. You can also marinate fillets for 10 minutes prior for extra flavor if desired.
  5. Bake the Tilapia: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh or dried parsley for color and freshness, then serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh tilapia fillets that are not frozen.
  • You can substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
  • Ensure not to overcook the fish, as tilapia cooks quickly and can become dry.
  • Pair this dish with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
  • If you prefer, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a slight kick.

Find it online: https://cookedbylina.com/lemon-pepper-baked-tilapia-ready-in-20-minutes-recipe/