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Pan-Seared Tilapia with Lemon Butter Sauce


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  • Author: Sarah Martinez
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 2

Description

Indulge in the delightful simplicity of pan-seared tilapia topped with a luscious lemon butter sauce. This dish features tender, flaky fish complemented by a zesty, aromatic sauce that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a weeknight favorite. Enjoy it served over fluffy rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a complete meal that celebrates vibrant flavors and effortless elegance.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse tilapia fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes. Add 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and bubbly.
  3. Place tilapia fillets in the skillet skin-side down (if applicable) and cook until golden brown, about 4 minutes.
  4. Gently flip each fillet using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until fully cooked through and flaky. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate.
  5. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in lemon juice while scraping up any bits stuck to the pan.
  6. Stir in remaining butter one tablespoon at a time until melted into the sauce. Add chopped parsley and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the tilapia before serving. Pair with steamed vegetables or rice.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce (approximately 170g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 270mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg