If you're craving something quick, healthy, and flavorful, look no further than this Simple Oven-Baked Tilapia. It's a dish that lets the natural taste of the fish shine, enhanced by a hint of citrus and herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or a light family dinner.
Tilapia fillets are the star of this dish, offering a mild flavor and tender texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Olive oil adds a rich, fruity note and helps keep the fish moist during baking. Lemon slices provide a fresh, tangy contrast that brightens up the entire dish. Garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried parsley bring a savory, herbaceous depth to the fillets, while salt and black pepper enhance all these flavors without overpowering them.
This tilapia pairs wonderfully with a light salad or a side of steamed vegetables. For something more substantial, consider serving it with a fluffy quinoa pilaf or buttery garlic mashed potatoes. A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, would complement it beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature to cook the fish evenly without drying it out. While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with some olive oil to ensure the fillets don't stick.
Next, lay the tilapia fillets in the baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle each fillet with a little more olive oil — about half a tablespoon per fillet should do the trick. This will not only add flavor but also help the seasoning stick.
Now, sprinkle garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried parsley evenly over the fillets. Don't forget the salt and black pepper; a little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the natural taste of the fish. Once seasoned, arrange a few slices of lemon on top of each fillet. The lemon will infuse the fish with a subtle citrusy aroma as it bakes.
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. The exact time can vary depending on the thickness of your fillets, but you're looking for the fish to flake easily with a fork. When it does, it's ready to serve.
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