Save on Pinterest 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 quickly became a favorite in my household I love how the tilapia stays moist and flavorful with minimal effort
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 34 minutes on the first side until lightly golden
- Step 4:
- Carefully flip the fillets and scatter minced garlic around the fish Cook another 23 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 on Pinterest My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this fresh flavorful meal especially when served with a light salad or steamed vegetables
Notes
Substitute cod or sole for tilapia if desired Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat Pairs beautifully with steamed green beans roasted potatoes or a light salad For dairy free use all olive oil in place of butter
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
Save on Pinterest This lemon herb tilapia is sure to become a staple with its balance of bright and savory flavors prepared in under 25 minutes
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute other fish for tilapia?
Yes, mild white fish such as cod or sole work well and can be prepared using the same method.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Replace the butter with additional olive oil to keep the dish dairy-free without compromising flavor.
- → What herbs complement the lemon and capers?
Fresh parsley and dill add brightness and freshness that enhance the citrus and briny notes.
- → Is this dish spicy?
By default, it’s mild, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat boost.
- → What sides pair best with this tilapia?
Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a light salad complement the flavors and keep the meal balanced.