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This broiled lemon pepper tilapia has been my go-to weeknight dinner for years. When I need something healthy and satisfying that doesn't take forever to make, this dish never disappoints. The combination of bright lemon, black pepper, and garlic creates an incredibly flavorful crust on the fish, while the quick broiling method keeps the inside perfectly moist and flaky.
Last month when my sister-in-law was visiting (she's notoriously picky about seafood), I made this for dinner with some roasted vegetables on the side. She asked for seconds and then requested the recipe before heading home. That's when you know a simple dish is truly a winner.
Key Ingredients
- Tilapia fillets: This mild white fish takes on flavors beautifully and cooks quickly. Look for fillets of even thickness for the most consistent cooking.
- Fresh lemon juice and zest: The combination gives you both brightness and depth. Pre-bottled juice just isn't the same here.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground makes a noticeable difference in this dish where pepper is a star ingredient.
- Garlic powder: Provides flavor without the risk of burning that fresh garlic might have under the broiler.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps create that beautiful golden color on the fish.
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Cooking Magic
- Prep the fish properly:
- Patting the fillets dry is crucial - it helps the seasoning stick and promotes better browning. Skip this step and you'll end up with steamed rather than broiled fish.
- Create a flavor paste:
- When you mix the olive oil with all those seasonings, you're creating a paste that will evenly coat the fish. Make sure to brush both sides for maximum flavor.
- Position it right:
- Place the baking sheet about 4 inches from the broiler for the perfect balance of quick cooking and gentle browning. Too close and it might burn before cooking through.
- Watch it closely:
- Broiling is fast and the line between perfectly done and overdone is thin. Start checking at the 4-minute mark - the fish should flake easily with a fork when it's ready.
- Finish with freshness:
- Don't skip the fresh parsley and lemon wedges at the end. That pop of fresh herb and extra squeeze of lemon juice brightens everything up.
- Let it rest:
- Give the fish a minute to rest after removing from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a moister final product.
I stumbled upon this recipe when trying to recreate a dish I had at a waterfront restaurant in Florida. After several attempts to get the seasoning just right, this version nailed that perfect balance of lemony brightness and peppery kick. Now it's in my regular dinner rotation, especially during busy weeks when I need something quick but don't want to sacrifice flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve this tilapia over a bed of lemony rice pilaf or alongside roasted asparagus for a complete meal. For a more substantial dinner, add a simple green salad with avocado and a light vinaigrette. If you're feeling fancy, a dollop of homemade herb butter on top of the hot fish adds richness without much extra effort.
Tasty Twists
Try adding a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning mix for a touch of heat. Substitute half the black pepper with lemon pepper seasoning for an even more pronounced lemon flavor. For Mediterranean flair, add some dried oregano and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese after broiling.
Quick Tips
This fish is best enjoyed immediately, but if you need to store leftovers, keep them refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 275°F oven to prevent drying out the fish. The seasoning mixture can be made ahead and stored in a sealed container for up to a week - just give it a good stir before using.
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This broiled lemon pepper tilapia has saved dinner at my house more times than I can count. There's something satisfying about being able to create a restaurant-quality meal in less time than it takes to order takeout. The bright flavors, tender texture, and quick preparation make it perfect for both busy weeknights and casual entertaining. Simple doesn't have to mean boring, and this dish proves that wonderfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other white fish?
- Yes, cod, flounder, or sole work well with similar cooking times.
- → How do I know when fish is done?
- Fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- → Can I bake instead of broil?
- Yes, bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes instead of broiling.
- → What sides go well with this?
- Try steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a light salad.
- → Can I make the seasoning ahead of time?
- Yes, mix and store in fridge up to 3 days, but add lemon juice just before using.