Tilapia Recipe
Make Tilapia Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Tilapia & Marinade
Pan & Finishing
Method
Tilapia & Marinade
- 1
Prep fillets
Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. Trim any thin edges so fillets cook evenly. Place fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag in a single layer.
- 2
Make marinade
Mince the garlic. In a small bowl combine 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (if using), 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk until blended.
- 3
Marinate
Pour the marinade over the tilapia, turning to coat both sides. Marinate for 10–20 minutes at room temperature or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Do not marinate longer than 30 minutes — the acid will start to firm the fish too much.
Pan & Finishing
- 4
Heat pan
Heat a large nonstick or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter. Let the butter melt and foam but not brown.
- 5
Cook tilapia
Remove excess marinade from fillets (let drip off) and place fillets in the hot pan, presentation side up. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until the underside is golden and edges start to turn opaque. Carefully flip and cook 2–3 minutes more until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Thicker fillets may need up to 4–5 minutes per side.
- 6
Finish with lemon & herbs
In the last 30 seconds, add lemon slices to the pan to warm and release juices, sprinkle lemon zest and 2 tablespoons chopped parsley over the fillets, and scatter 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Spoon pan juices over the fish for added flavor.
- 7