Save Pin 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 recipe was my go-to for busy weeknights when I wanted something fresh yet flavorful that didn't require much cleanup.
Ingredients
- Tilapia fillets: 4 fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
- Kosher salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons (plus extra lemon wedges for serving)
- Lemon zest: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons chopped
- Fresh dill (optional): 1 tablespoon chopped
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Capers: 2 tablespoons, drained and rinsed
- Garlic cloves: 2, 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 Pin This recipe has become a family favorite especially when we want something light and healthy for dinner together.
Required Tools
Large nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons, citrus zester, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish (tilapia) and dairy (butter). To make dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil. Double-check capers for cross-contamination if highly sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 240 per serving, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 27 g
Save Pin This tilapia dish is perfect for when you want dinner done quickly without sacrificing flavor.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute other fish for tilapia?
Yes, mild white fish such as cod or sole work well as alternatives and maintain a similar texture and flavor balance.
- → How do I make this dish dairy-free?
Replace the butter with additional olive oil to keep the dish dairy-free while preserving its rich flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a light green salad complement the citrus and herb flavors nicely.
- → How can I add mild heat to the dish?
A pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat without overpowering the bright citrus notes.
- → What cooking tools are recommended?
A large nonstick skillet ensures even cooking and easy flipping of the delicate fish fillets.