Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia

Name: Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 tilapia fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Wholesome Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love this Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia because it’s a light and refreshing dish that never fails to impress. The tender, flaky fish is infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, creating a delightful balance of flavors. I often serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It comes together in just a handful of minutes, allowing for a delicious and healthy meal without the hassle.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:37:36.015Z

When I first made Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. Using fresh herbs like parsley and dill really elevates the dish, making it more vibrant. I learned that the key to perfecting this recipe is to not overcrowd the baking dish, allowing the fish to cook evenly while absorbing all the aromatic flavors.

As I experimented, I discovered that a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the overall taste. It's such a quick meal that I often prepare when I want something healthy but don’t have much time. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty lemon flavor that complements the delicate fish
Simple preparation and cooking method that is beginner-friendly
Healthy and light option for weeknight dinners or gatherings

The Perfect Cooking Time

Getting the cooking time right is crucial for achieving flaky tilapia fillets. Bake your tilapia for about 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The fish is done when it appears opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If it’s still translucent in the center, give it another minute or two. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be lightly golden, indicating a lovely sear without drying out the fish.

To ensure even cooking, make sure the fillets are similar in thickness. If some pieces are thicker than others, consider gently pounding them to achieve an even thickness. This technique helps prevent overcooking the thinner parts while waiting for the thicker areas to finish baking.

Ingredient Benefits and Substitutions

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in enhancing the tilapia's flavor. Fresh herbs like dill and parsley not only add a burst of freshness but also offer culinary brightness that complements the lemon. If you're out of fresh herbs, you can substitute dried herbs, using about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

If you prefer a twist on this dish, consider using different types of fish, like haddock or cod, which similarly respond well to citrus and herbs. You can even adjust the herbs based on what you have on hand—for instance, cilantro or basil can provide a unique flavor profile that still works well with lemon.

Ingredients

4 tilapia fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Season the Fish

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dill, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Coat the Fillets

Place the tilapia fillets in a baking dish and drizzle the herb mixture over the top, ensuring each fillet is well coated.

Bake

Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and opaque.

Serve

Remove from the oven and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider marinating the tilapia in the herb mixture for 30 minutes before baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia pairs beautifully with various sides. For a light and balanced meal, serve it alongside steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or a crisp salad garnished with a simple vinaigrette. The brightness of the lemon harmonizes with the fresh vegetables, enhancing the meal without overpowering the fish.

For a heartier option, consider serving the tilapia over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. These grains absorb the zesty flavors from the fish and provide a satisfying base. Adding a sprinkle of lemon zest over the finished dish can elevate the experience, accentuating the citrus notes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the baked tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep for up to 3 days. Reheating can be tricky since fish tends to dry out; try warming it gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain moisture while heating through.

For a quick meal prep, consider baking the fish and then incorporating it into salads or wraps the next day. The lemon herb flavor will enhance cold dishes beautifully. You can even flake the leftover fish and mix it with some avocado and lime juice for a delicious seafood salad.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tilapia fillets?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's great with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I know when the tilapia is cooked?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.

→ Can I substitute herbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any fresh herbs you prefer, such as basil or thyme.