Simple Lemon-Herb Tilapia Capers

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.

I love serving this lemon-herb tilapia when I want a flavorful meal that comes together quickly and feels special at the table.

Ingredients

• Fish: 4 tilapia fillets (about 56 oz each), 12 teaspoon kosher salt, 14 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

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

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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 34 minutes on the first side until lightly golden.

Step 4:

Carefully flip the fillets and scatter minced garlic around the fish. Cook another 23 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 recipe brings back memories of casual dinners shared with family on sunny weekends.

Required Tools

Large nonstick skillet, Spatula, Measuring spoons, Citrus zester, Knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains fish (tilapia) and dairy (butter). To make dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil. Double-check capers for cross-contamination if highly sensitive.

Nutritional Information

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

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Measure spices, liquids, and baking ingredients accurately for consistent results in cooking and baking.

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This tilapia dish is a fresh and healthy option that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What is the best way to cook tilapia for this dish?

Cooking tilapia in a hot skillet with olive oil and butter allows for a golden, flaky texture. Cook 3-4 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook 2-3 minutes until the fish flakes easily.

→ Can other fish be used instead of tilapia?

Yes, mild white fish such as cod or sole work well as substitutes, offering similar texture and flavor profiles.

→ How do capers influence the flavor of this dish?

Capers contribute a briny, slightly tart taste that complements the citrus and herbs, enhancing the overall brightness and depth.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, simply replace the butter with extra olive oil to maintain moisture and flavor without dairy.

→ What side dishes pair well with lemon-herb tilapia?

Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad balance the light, citrusy flavors of the fish and make a complete meal.

→ How can I add a little heat to this dish?

A pinch of red pepper flakes added when cooking garlic adds gentle spice without overpowering the fresh flavors.