Herb-Crusted Tilapia

Introduction

Herb-Crusted Tilapia is a simple yet delightful dish featuring crispy, flavorful fish fillets topped with a savory herb and Parmesan crust. This easy recipe is perfect for a light, satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with various sides.

Ingredients

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Herb Crust: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried parsley, basil, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil (or melted butter) into the breadcrumb mixture and stir until it resembles a coarse, crumbly texture.
3. Season the Tilapia: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the lemon juice over each fillet, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Crust the Tilapia: Press the herb breadcrumb mixture onto the top of each tilapia fillet, gently pressing down to ensure it sticks well.
5. Bake the Tilapia: Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Serve your herb-crusted tilapia with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor, alongside your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

• For a Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Different Herbs: Substitute fresh herbs for dried ones, or use a pre-mixed Italian seasoning blend.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try using shredded mozzarella or a different hard cheese if you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain the crispiness of the crust.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tilapia? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking.
2. What can I serve with this tilapia? It pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prepare and coat the tilapia in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
4. How do I know when the tilapia is done? The fish should flake easily with a fork, and the crust should be golden brown.
5. Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, you can use other white fish fillets like cod or haddock with similar results.
6. Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs? Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
7. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Use about 3 tablespoons of fresh herbs for each tablespoon of dried.
8. How can I make the crust extra crispy? Try broiling the tilapia for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking to achieve a crispier crust.
9. Can I freeze this dish? It is best served fresh, but you can freeze the uncooked, coated fillets. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
10. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven to keep the crust crispy, rather than in the microwave.

Conclusion

Herb-Crusted Tilapia is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that delivers on flavor and texture. With its crispy herb topping and tender, flaky fish, it’s a perfect choice for a light meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and savor the comforting flavors of this classic recipe.

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