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Pan-seared tilapia with lemony butter sauce brings together simplicity and elegance, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The crispy golden fish pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon sauce, creating a mouthwatering flavor combo that's hard to resist. You'll get restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen with this easy-to-make dish.
A dish you'll fall in love with
Fish lovers will be amazed by this knockout recipe. It takes just half an hour to make and strikes the right balance between light and indulgent. The tilapia gets a beautiful golden crust while the lemony butter sauce adds creaminess with a zesty kick. You can pair it with tons of different sides, and your guests will think you spent hours making such a fancy-looking meal.
What you'll need
4 tilapia fillets about 6oz each, fresh or thawed, boneless and skinless for quick cooking. 1/2 cup melted salted butter for a rich, smooth sauce. 2 tablespoons olive oil to get that golden finish. 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice for brightness. Seasonings: garlic powder, sea salt and black pepper to boost the fish flavor and make the sauce pop.
Step-by-step cooking guide
Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides using 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Get a large pan hot with 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. Place your seasoned fillets in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges look white. Carefully flip and cook another 2-4 minutes. Turn down to medium-low heat. Drop in 125g salted butter and let it melt. Stir in the lemon juice and garlic powder. Cook 1-2 minutes until it thickens up. Pour some sauce on each plate, place the tilapia on top, then drizzle with extra sauce.
Great side dish ideas
This tilapia works with so many sides to round out your meal. Steamed broccoli, asparagus or green beans add a nice fresh element. If you want something heartier, go for fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. Don't forget some crusty bread to soak up all that tasty lemon butter sauce.
Storing leftovers
Keep any leftover fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm it up slowly in a pan on low heat so it doesn't dry out, and heat the sauce separately. You can freeze the fish for up to 2 months but it's better to make fresh sauce when you're ready to eat it again.
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Tasty twists
You can switch things up with this flexible recipe in several yummy ways. Throw in fresh herbs like parsley, dill or thyme to the butter sauce for extra flavor. Add a dash of chili for some heat. Try using lime or orange instead of lemon for a different taste profile. Coat the tilapia with a mix of parmesan and breadcrumbs before cooking if you want extra crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I tell if tilapia is done?
- Tilapia is cooked when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. It usually takes 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat.
- → Can I replace tilapia with another fish?
- Yes, firm white fish like cod, sole, or sea bass works wonderfully for this recipe too.
- → How do I stop the fish from sticking to the pan?
- Make sure the pan is hot before adding the fish. Pat the filets dry with a paper towel and only flip them once while cooking.
- → Can the sauce be made ahead of time?
- It's best to make the sauce just before serving to keep it creamy and warm. It may harden upon cooling and lose its smooth texture.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
- This tilapia is great with steamed veggies, white rice, or a fresh green salad. Roast potatoes or quinoa make an excellent addition too.