20-Minute Baked Tilapia with Butter and Garlic
When time is of the essence but you refuse to compromise on flavour, this delightful recipe for baked tilapia with butter and garlic is your perfect weeknight solution. Designed for minimal fuss and maximum taste, it delivers tender, succulent fish infused with aromatic garlic and rich butter, all ready in under half an hour. It’s an effortlessly elegant and light meal that brings satisfaction without any kitchen complications, ensuring you can enjoy a wholesome dinner even on the busiest evenings. A true testament to smart, efficient cooking.
Quick Overview
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Serves: 2
Ingredients
- 2 tilapia fillets (approx. 5.3-6.3 oz / 150-180g each)
- 2.1 oz (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Fine salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Lemon wedges, to serve
Method
- Preheat oven to 200°C (fan) or 220°C (conventional). Lightly grease a baking tray with olive oil.
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with kitchen paper. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Arrange them on the prepared baking tray.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix well until a smooth sauce forms.
- Pour the butter and garlic sauce evenly over the tilapia fillets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook to prevent it from drying out.
Serving & Leftovers
Serve the hot tilapia immediately, garnished with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges. It pairs beautifully with light vegetables or rice. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, though reheating is not recommended as the fish tends to lose its delicate texture.
Nutrition
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
One Last Thing
Mastering your weekly cooking routine means striking a perfect balance between delightful flavours and practical efficiency. This baked tilapia recipe exemplifies how simple ingredients and a methodical approach can quickly create a satisfying meal. Incorporating such effortless yet wholesome dishes into your repertoire ensures sustained quality and stress-free culinary experiences.