Introduction
Get ready to savor a delicious and healthy dish with these baked tilapia filets, expertly coated in a savory Parmesan crust. This simple recipe combines the light, flaky texture of tilapia with the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese and a hint of lemon pepper. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these filets are sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 (4-ounce) tilapia filets, fresh or thawed from frozen, patted dry
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon olive oil (avoid extra virgin)
¼ cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
¼ cup diced green onions (optional)
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy this delightful baked tilapia, garnished with fresh green onions and lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Tilapia
Drizzle olive oil over the tilapia filets, ensuring each filet is well coated to aid in moisture and flavor.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, lemon pepper seasoning, chopped parsley, and kosher salt until evenly combined.
Step 4: Coat the Tilapia
Press the cheese mixture firmly onto the tilapia filets, making sure that it adheres well to create a flavorful crust.
Step 5: Add Shredded Parmesan
Sprinkle the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese evenly over the coated filets for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Step 6: Bake the Filets
Place the coated filets on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque at its thickest part.
Step 7: Broil for Crispiness
For a crispier crust, switch the oven to broil and broil the filets for an additional 5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the filets with diced green onions. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for added flavor, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Type of Olive Oil
Use regular olive oil, avoiding extra virgin, as it has a lower smoke point, which is better suited for baking.
Note 2: Checking Doneness
Make sure to check the tilapia for doneness as cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the filets.
Note 3: Optional Garnishes
Diced green onions are optional but can enhance the presentation and flavor of the dish.
Cook techniques
Preparing Tilapia
Pat the tilapia filets dry before applying the olive oil and cheese mixture to ensure a better adherence and crispiness during baking.
Coating with Cheese
Combine grated Parmesan cheese with lemon pepper seasoning and chopped parsley, then press this mixture firmly onto the tilapia filets for an even layer.
Baking Fish
Preheat the oven to 400°F and place the coated filets on a lined baking sheet to bake for about 10 minutes until the fish is opaque at its thickest part.
Broiling for Crispiness
For a crispier texture, broil the fish for an additional 5 minutes after baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Garnishing
Finish the dish by garnishing with diced green onions and serving with lemon wedges for added flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tilapia, just ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before preparation.
What can I substitute for lemon pepper seasoning?
If you don’t have lemon pepper seasoning, you can mix lemon zest with black pepper and a little salt as a substitute.
Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute tilapia with other firm white fish such as cod or haddock if desired.
How can I tell when the fish is done cooking?
The fish is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork, typically around 10 minutes of baking.
Is it necessary to use an olive oil that is not extra virgin?
Regular olive oil is recommended for this recipe to withstand higher cooking temperatures without burning, unlike extra virgin olive oil.
Conclusion
Deliciously baked tilapia with a crispy Parmesan crust is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s both easy to prepare and healthy. The combination of lemon pepper seasoning and fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch, while the garnish of green onions and lemon wedges enhances the overall presentation and flavor. Enjoy this versatile fish dish with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
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