Save A light, citrusy tilapia dish featuring fresh herbs and briny capers—perfect for a quick, elegant weeknight dinner. The fillets are tender and flaky, easy to eat with just a fork.
This recipe has become a family favorite for busy nights when I want something elegant but effortless to prepare.
Ingredients
- Fish: 4 tilapia fillets (about 5–6 oz each), 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Citrus & Herbs: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (plus extra lemon wedges, for serving), 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
- Sauce & Pan Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons capers drained and rinsed, 2 garlic cloves finely minced
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 3:
- Add tilapia fillets to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side until lightly golden.
- Step 4:
- Carefully flip the fillets and scatter minced garlic around the fish. Cook another 2–3 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 5:
- Add capers, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet. Swirl in the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and cook for 1 more minute, gently spooning sauce over fish.
- Step 6:
- Remove from heat. Transfer fillets to plates and spoon pan sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (and dill, if using).
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges.
Save Making this dish often leads to joyful family dinners with compliments all around the table.
Required Tools
Large nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons, citrus zester, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish (tilapia) and dairy (butter). To make dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil. Double-check capers for cross-contamination if highly sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 240, Total Fat 13 g, Carbohydrates 3 g, Protein 27 g
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This versatile dish is sure to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to cook tilapia for this dish?
Pat the fillets dry, then pan-sear in olive oil and butter until golden and flaky, cooking gently for tender texture.
- → Can I substitute the herbs in this preparation?
Yes, parsley and dill can be swapped or combined with fresh basil or thyme to suit your taste.
- → How do capers affect the flavor profile?
Capers add a briny, tangy punch that complements the lemon and buttery sauce, enhancing the overall brightness.
- → What are recommended side dishes to pair with this entree?
Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a crisp salad pair well, balancing freshness and texture.
- → Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?
Replace butter with extra olive oil to maintain rich flavor while keeping the dish dairy-free.