Pan Seared Tilapia
A quick and delightful pan seared tilapia dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, featuring tender, flaky fish with a crispy crust and loads of flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 fillets Tilapia fillets Fresh or thawed; mild and flaky.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
- 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced for best flavor; garlic powder works in a pinch.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Brightens the dish; vinegar can substitute in a hurry.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Essential seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper Essential seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds a hint of smokiness; chili powder or cayenne can offer a spicy twist.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Sprinkle both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Carefully place the tilapia in the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Flip the fish, add minced garlic to the pan, and allow it to cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Drizzle some fresh lemon juice over the top just before taking the fish off the heat.
- Transfer the cooked tilapia to a plate and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For variations, you can use cod, salmon, or shrimp instead of tilapia, and add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach in the last minute of cooking. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.