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- 4 tilapia fillets - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 4 cloves garlic, finely minced - Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme) - Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds - 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips - Fresh parsley for garnish The key to a tasty dinner is fresh ingredients. First, I always choose good-quality tilapia fillets. They should be firm and smell fresh, not fishy. Next, I use extra virgin olive oil for a rich taste. I finely mince four cloves of garlic for a strong flavor. The zest and juice of one lemon add brightness to the dish. For seasoning, I mix smoked paprika and thyme. Smoked paprika brings warmth, while thyme gives it a nice herbal touch. I also use sea salt and cracked black pepper for balance. These flavors work together well. Now, let’s not forget the veggies! I love using cherry tomatoes for sweetness, zucchini for crunch, and red bell pepper for color. They all roast beautifully together. Finally, I garnish with fresh parsley. It adds a nice pop of green and fresh flavor. With these ingredients, you're on your way to making a delicious, lemon garlic tilapia that is sure to delight. - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step warms the oven for even cooking. - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps with easy cleanup. - In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon thyme, and salt and pepper. This mix will be your marinade. - Lay 4 tilapia fillets flat on the sheet pan. Use a brush or spoon to coat each fillet with the marinade. Make sure every side gets covered well. - In another bowl, combine 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes, 1 sliced zucchini, and 1 sliced red bell pepper. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the veggies. Toss gently to coat. Arrange them around the tilapia on the sheet pan. - Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven. Set a timer for 15-20 minutes. - Check the tilapia at 15 minutes. It should look opaque and flake easily with a fork. The veggies should be tender and slightly caramelized. If they need more time, check every few minutes until done. To boost flavor, marinate the tilapia for at least 30 minutes. This gives the garlic and lemon time to soak in. You can prepare the marinade and let it sit while you prep your veggies. For tilapia, choose fresh fillets with a mild scent. If buying frozen, let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture. Look for fillets that are firm and shiny. To cook evenly, place your sheet pan in the middle of the oven. This spot allows hot air to circulate well around your food. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the best results. To avoid overcooking, check the tilapia after 15 minutes. It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it looks slightly translucent, give it a few extra minutes. For a fun presentation, serve straight from the sheet pan. This rustic style is casual and inviting. If you want to plate, place the tilapia on individual plates with veggies around it. Add fresh lemon wedges for extra zest. Consider pairing this dish with a light salad or fluffy couscous for a full meal. Enjoy the colorful look and fresh taste! {{image_4}} You can switch herbs to change the flavor. If you want a fresh taste, use dill or basil. These herbs pair well with lemon and garlic. You can also add spices for a kick. For heat, try red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. This adds warmth and depth to each bite. You can use many vegetables in this dish. Broccoli, asparagus, or carrots work great. They add color and nutrients. Seasonal veggies are also a fun choice. In spring, use fresh peas or asparagus. In fall, try Brussels sprouts or squash. Each season brings new flavors to explore. You can grill or bake the tilapia. Grilling gives it a smoky flavor. It works well if you want a charred finish. Baking is easier and great for meal prep. You can also switch from a sheet pan to a skillet. A skillet allows for quick cooking and browning. Each method gives a unique twist to this dish. After your meal, let the tilapia cool down. Place the tilapia and veggies in an airtight container. This way, they stay fresh in the fridge. Use the leftovers within three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. To reheat tilapia, use the oven or a microwave. If using an oven, set it to 350°F (175°C). Place the tilapia on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. This keeps it moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. If using a microwave, warm it in short bursts. Check to avoid overcooking. Reheated food should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety. To freeze, wrap each tilapia fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag. Be sure to squeeze out the air. For veggies, spread them on a baking sheet first, then freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag. This helps keep the veggies from sticking together. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat as usual. Cooking tilapia on a sheet pan takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This quick cooking makes it perfect for busy nights. Yes, you can use frozen tilapia. Just make sure to thaw it first. You can do this by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using cold water for faster results. This recipe works well with frozen fish, but fresh tilapia offers the best flavor. A few great sides to pair with lemon garlic tilapia include: - Steamed broccoli or green beans - Quinoa or rice for a filling base - A fresh garden salad with mixed greens - Roasted sweet potatoes for added sweetness These sides complement the flavors of the fish and add color to your plate. This recipe for lemon garlic tilapia is simple and delicious. You learned about key ingredients, like fresh herbs and bright vegetables, that enhance its taste. I provided easy steps for prep, cooking, and serving. You can even switch up flavors and try different veggies based on what’s in season. Remember to store and reheat leftovers properly to enjoy later. With these tips, you can enjoy a healthy meal that satisfies your taste buds.

Sheet-Pan Lemon Garlic Tilapia

Savor the delightful flavors of Citrusy Garlic Herb Tilapia on a Sheet Pan! This simple and healthy recipe combines tender tilapia fillets with vibrant veggies, all infused with a zesty garlic-lemon marinade. Perfect for busy weeknights, it cooks up in just 25 minutes. Discover the easy step-by-step instructions and impress your family at dinner. Click through to explore this tasty dish and elevate your meal prep game!
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Ingredients
  

4 tilapia fillets

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 medium zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch rounds

1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips

Fresh parsley, roughly chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the middle for even cooking.

    In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will serve as a flavorful marinade.

      Lay the tilapia fillets flat on a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Use a brush or spoon to coat the fillets generously with the marinade, ensuring all sides are well-covered.

        In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, and red bell pepper strips. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the veggies, tossing them gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Arrange the seasoned vegetables around the tilapia on the sheet pan.

          Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The tilapia should be opaque and flake easily with a fork, while the vegetables become tender and slightly caramelized.

            Once finished, carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

              Just before serving, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

                - Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve directly from the sheet pan for a rustic look, or plate individual fillets alongside sautéed vegetables, garnished with additional lemon wedges for an extra pop of freshness.