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 dish quickly became a favorite because it feels elegant but is so simple to make. The capers add a surprising burst of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
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 This recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table. We enjoy sharing stories while savoring the bright flavors and flaky texture.
Required Tools
Large nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons, citrus zester, knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories: 240, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 27 g per serving
Allergen Information
Contains fish (tilapia) and dairy (butter). To make dairy-free replace butter with olive oil.
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This Lemon-Herb Tilapia is perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels special without extra effort.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of fish works best for this dish?
Tilapia fillets are preferred for their mild flavor and flaky texture, but cod or sole can be used as substitutes.
- → How do capers influence the flavor?
Capers provide a tangy, briny bite that balances the citrus and herbs, enhancing the overall brightness of the dish.
- → Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Yes, by replacing butter with additional olive oil, the dish remains flavorful while accommodating dairy-free needs.
- → What side dishes complement this preparation?
Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a light salad pair beautifully and enhance the meal’s freshness.
- → How to ensure the fish remains tender and flaky?
Cook the fillets over medium-high heat for a short time, flipping carefully and avoiding overcooking to maintain moistness.