Fork-Friendly Lemon-Herb Tilapia

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 has become a favorite for busy weeknights when I want something flavorful yet simple that everyone enjoys.

Ingredients

• Fish: 4 tilapia fillets (about 5–6 oz each), 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Citrus & Herbs: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (plus extra lemon wedges, for serving), 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
• Sauce & Pan Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons capers drained and rinsed, 2 garlic cloves finely minced

Instructions

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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.

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

Collect vegetable peels, food scraps, and trimmings while cooking to keep your kitchen clean and organized.

Check price on Amazon

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This dish brings my family together around the table every week—always met with smiles and second helpings.

Required Tools

Large nonstick skillet, spatula, measuring spoons, citrus zester, knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains fish (tilapia) and dairy (butter). For dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 240, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 3 g, Protein: 27 g per serving

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This lemon-herb tilapia is as effortless as it is delicious, making it the ultimate go-to for a healthy weeknight meal.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of fish works best in this dish?

Tilapia fillets are preferred for their mild flavor and flaky texture, but cod or sole can be good substitutes.

→ How can I make the dish dairy-free?

Replace the butter with extra olive oil for a dairy-free version without sacrificing richness.

→ What herbs complement the lemon and capers?

Fresh parsley and dill add bright, herbal notes that enhance the citrus and briny flavors.

→ Can I add some heat to this dish?

Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking gives a subtle spicy kick that balances the tangy elements.

→ What sides pair well with this tilapia preparation?

Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a fresh light salad all complement the delicate flavors perfectly.