Fresh Filet Of Tilapia Recipe
Make Fresh Filet Of 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
Prepare fillets
Pat the tilapia fillets dry on both sides with paper towels. Check for any remaining bones and remove if present.
- 2
Make marinade
In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon sea salt, and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until combined.
- 3
Marinate
Place the tilapia fillets in the dish and spoon the marinade over them to coat evenly. Let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes for a milder result. Turn fillets once midway to ensure even coating.
Pan & Finishing
- 4
Heat pan
Place a large nonstick or stainless-steel skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil and let it shimmer but not smoke (about 1 minute).
- 5
Sear fillets
Add the marinated tilapia fillets to the hot pan, presentation side down first if applicable. Cook without moving for 2–3 minutes, until the underside is golden and releases easily. Flip carefully with a spatula.
- 6
Finish with butter and lemon
Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 4 lemon slices to the pan. Spoon the melted butter over the fillets and cook another 1.5–2 minutes, until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature about 63°C / 145°F). Turn lemon slices once to warm and release juice.
- 7
Rest and garnish
Transfer the cooked tilapia to a warmed plate. Spoon any pan juices over the fillets. Garnish with reserved fresh parsley leaves and place a warm lemon slice on each fillet. Serve immediately.