Lemon Herb Parmesan Tilapia
Indulge in this delightful Lemon Herb Parmesan Tilapia, a dish that effortlessly combines fresh flavors with simplicity for a quick weeknight meal. Broiled to perfection, the tender tilapia fillets are topped with a rich, creamy Parmesan mixture infused with zesty lemon juice and aromatic herbs. Pair it with fluffy Rice Pilaf or creamy Risotto, and don’t forget to pour yourself a refreshing glass of Chardonnay to elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only delicious but also a healthy option for the whole family, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 cup (freshly grated)
Butter
1/4 cup (softened)
Mayonnaise
6 tablespoons (regular or light)
Fresh Lemon Juice
2-3 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Garlic Powder
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Dried Basil
1/4 teaspoon (dried)
Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Onion Powder
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Old Bay Seasoning
1/8 teaspoon (or to taste)
Tilapia Fillets
2 lbs (fresh or thawed)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Herb Parmesan Tilapia?
Lemon Herb Parmesan Tilapia is a flavorful seafood dish featuring broiled tilapia fillets topped with a creamy Parmesan and herb mixture.
How is this tilapia cooked?
The tilapia fillets are broiled to perfection to achieve a tender texture and a bubbly, golden topping.
What are the main ingredients for the topping?
The topping consists of grated Parmesan cheese, softened butter, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and various herbs.
Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, you can use frozen tilapia fillets as long as they are completely thawed before you begin the preparation.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy option for the whole family, providing lean protein from the tilapia.
What side dishes go well with this tilapia?
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy Rice Pilaf or a creamy Risotto.
Can I use a different type of fish?
While designed for tilapia, this Parmesan topping works well with other mild white fish like cod or haddock.
How much lemon juice is required?
The recipe requires 2-3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The seasoning blend includes garlic powder, dried basil, black pepper, onion powder, and Old Bay Seasoning.
Can I use light mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use either regular or light mayonnaise for the topping mixture.
Is the butter softened or melted for the mixture?
The butter should be softened to ensure it blends smoothly with the other topping ingredients.
How much tilapia does this recipe serve?
The recipe uses 2 lbs of tilapia fillets, which typically serves 4 to 6 people.
What wine pairs best with this meal?
A refreshing glass of Chardonnay is recommended to elevate the dining experience.
Is this recipe suitable for a busy weeknight?
Yes, it is an ideal choice for busy weeknights because it is quick and simple to prepare.
Can I grill the tilapia instead of broiling?
While broiling gives the best results for the Parmesan crust, you can grill the fish, though the topping texture may differ.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The tilapia is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
What is Old Bay Seasoning?
Old Bay is a classic blend of herbs and spices that is widely used to season seafood.
Can I substitute fresh basil for dried basil?
Yes, you can use fresh basil; use about one tablespoon of chopped fresh basil to replace the 1/4 teaspoon of dried.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your mayonnaise and seasonings.
What preparation is needed for the Parmesan?
The Parmesan should be freshly grated to ensure the best flavor and melting quality.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, though bottled can be used if fresh is unavailable.
Should I grease the broiler pan?
It is recommended to lightly grease the pan or line it with foil to prevent the fish from sticking.
Can I make the Parmesan topping in advance?
Yes, you can mix the topping ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
How much garlic powder should I use?
The recipe suggests 1/4 teaspoon, but you can adjust this to taste.
What type of cuisine does this dish represent?
This recipe is an Italian-style seafood dish featuring classic Mediterranean flavors like basil and Parmesan.
How much onion powder is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/8 teaspoon of onion powder, or more to taste.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?
Plain Greek yogurt can often be used as a substitute for mayonnaise, though it may be slightly more tangy.
How long does it take to broil the tilapia?
Tilapia typically broils in 5 to 8 minutes, but you should watch it closely for a golden-brown topping.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.