Description
Tender tilapia fillets pan-seared and simmered in a smoky, savory sauce with garlic and spices, creating a flavorful yet light main dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 600 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add tilapia fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in butter and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Return tilapia to the skillet and spoon sauce over the fish.
- Simmer gently for 2 minutes until fish is cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Do not overcook tilapia to keep it tender.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: International