Imagine a dish so effortlessly elegant and bursting with flavor that it transforms your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. This Lemon Dill Baked Tilapia is not just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds to a seaside restaurant without ever leaving your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and will have your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the tilapia will cook evenly and develop a nice, flaky texture.
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, allowing for better seasoning and cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful oil mixture to brush on the fish.
- Brush both sides of each tilapia fillet with the olive oil mixture, ensuring that they are evenly coated. This will enhance the flavor and help the fish to brown slightly in the oven.
- Place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Lay the lemon slices evenly over the fillets. The lemon will infuse the fish with a bright, zesty flavor as it bakes.
- Sprinkle the fresh dill over the top of the fillets and lemon slices. Dill pairs beautifully with fish and adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the dish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the tilapia rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the fish more tender.
- Serve the lemon dill baked tilapia warm, garnished with additional fresh dill or lemon wedges if desired. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, high-quality tilapia fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat the fish completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Don't overcook the tilapia - it should flake easily but remain moist and tender.
- Use fresh dill if possible; it provides a much more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
- For extra zestiness, try adding a small amount of minced garlic to the olive oil mixture.
- If you want a crispy top, broil the fish for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
- Let the fish rest after cooking to help retain its moisture and develop deeper flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 55mg
