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Pan Seared Tilapia

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  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

Enjoy the flaky and tender pan-seared tilapia seasoned to perfection, served with fresh lemon and parsley.


Ingredients

  • 4 tilapia fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped


Instructions

  1. Take the tilapia fillets out of the refrigerator and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. Pat the tops and bottoms dry and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of each tilapia fillet, pressing it into the flesh.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes and add the oil.
  4. Carefully lay the tilapia fillets in the hot pan and let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the edges turn opaque and a golden-brown crust forms.
  5. Flip the fillets and cook on the second side for another 2-3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.
  6. Lower the heat to low, add the butter to the pan, and spoon the foaming butter over the fillets for about a minute.
  7. Transfer the seared tilapia to a warm plate, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

For best results, ensure the skillet is well heated before adding the fillets and avoid overcrowding.