Savory Herb-Crusted Tilapia

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 8 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this Savory Herb-Crusted Tilapia. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a delightful crunch and a burst of fresh flavors, perfect for impressing family or guests without a fuss.

Ingredients for Savory Herb-Crusted Tilapia

Tilapia fillets are mild and flaky, making them a great canvas for the herb crust. All-purpose flour helps create a crispy outer layer, while the mix of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder infuses the fish with flavor. The dried parsley adds a hint of earthiness. Olive oil and unsalted butter work together to create a rich, golden crust. Finally, lemon slices add a bright, zesty finish to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Make sure the fillets are dry before dredging them in the flour mixture for better adhesion.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
  • Keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning the butter — it should be sizzling, not smoking.

Serving Suggestions

This tilapia goes wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with garlic mashed potatoes or a light pasta dish tossed in olive oil and herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh parsley instead of dried?
Yes, fresh parsley can be used. Just double the amount for a similar flavor impact.
Can I use a different type of fish?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other mild white fish like cod or haddock.
How do I know when the tilapia is cooked?
The fish should be opaque and easily flake with a fork when done.

Savory Herb-Crusted Tilapia Recipe Walkthrough

Start by rinsing the tilapia fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step ensures that the coating will stick nicely. Next, in a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Dredge each fillet in this flour mixture, making sure both sides are evenly coated.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the butter and let it melt completely. Carefully place the fillets in the skillet. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they're golden brown and cooked through. This should give them a beautiful crust and an inviting aroma.

Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them immediately, accompanied by lemon slices for that extra zing.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make — ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Packed with aromatic herbs and spices for a flavor boost.
  • Perfect for both picky eaters and seafood lovers.
  • Uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

4 tilapia fillets (about 4 oz each)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp dried parsley
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 lemon, sliced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley.
3. Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add the butter to the skillet and allow it to melt.
6. Place the fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the fillets from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
8. Serve immediately with lemon slices on the side.

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