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For seafood enthusiasts and novices alike, Zesty Lemon Butter Tilapia offers a refreshing and flavorful option that is sure to impress. This dish embodies the essence of simple yet elegant cooking with its bright citrus notes and rich buttery sauce. It’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence but flavor cannot be compromised. The combination of tender tilapia fillets, zesty lemon, and creamy butter creates a culinary experience that elevates the meal to new heights.

Lemon Butter Tilapia

Discover the delightful flavors of Zesty Lemon Butter Tilapia, a perfect dish for seafood lovers and novices alike. This quick and easy recipe features tender tilapia fillets bathed in a rich lemon butter sauce, elevating your weeknight dinners with minimal effort. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, tilapia is a healthy choice that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables or rice. Enjoy a gourmet experience that impresses without the hassle in under 30 minutes!
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Ingredients
  

4 (6 oz) tilapia fillets

1/4 cup unsalted butter

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional: additional parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Tilapia: Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

    Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (do not let it brown).

      Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, followed by the dried or fresh parsley. Mix well, allowing the flavors to combine. Remove the sauce from heat.

        Cook the Tilapia: In a large non-stick skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Gently place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden browned and cooked through.

          Add Sauce to Pan: Carefully flip the fillets and pour the lemon butter sauce over the tilapia. Allow to cook for another 2-3 minutes, spooning the sauce over the fish to keep it moist.

            Serve: Once the fish is flaky and fully cooked, remove it from the skillet. Plate the tilapia with a generous drizzle of the sauce. Serve with lemon wedges on the side and garnish with additional parsley if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings