Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a crispier result when frying.
In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried oregano. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets. For an extra crispy texture, lightly dust the fillets with all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
Place a large skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. The butter adds richness, while the oil prevents burning.
Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the tilapia fillets in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid moving the fish too much while cooking to ensure a proper sear.
Just before removing the tilapia from the pan, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets. This enhances the flavor and balances the richness of the fish.
Transfer the tilapia to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g