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A baked whole tilapia garnished with herbs and lemon.

Delicious Whole Tilapia Recipes: Your Ultimate Cooking Guide

  • Author: Joy’s Kitchen
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Whole Roasted Tilapia recipe is a feast for the senses, combining tender, flaky fish with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is simple to prepare and packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a wholesome, delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole tilapia (cleaned, scaled, and gutted, about 1.5 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon (thinly sliced)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 sprigs fresh rosemary (or thyme)
  • 3 sprigs fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp butter (softened)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin (optional, for a warm flavor)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish:
    • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
    • Pat the tilapia dry with paper towels and score the sides with shallow diagonal cuts (about 2–3 per side) to help the seasoning penetrate.
  2. Season:
    • Rub the fish inside and out with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
    • Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, minced garlic, and rosemary.
  3. Prepare the Butter:
    • In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with a pinch of salt, pepper, and cumin (if using). Spread half of the butter over the surface of the fish.
  4. Bake:
    • Place the tilapia on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
    • Halfway through cooking, spread the remaining butter on top of the fish.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the fish from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

  • For a crispy skin, broil the fish for 2–3 minutes after baking.
  • You can substitute rosemary with dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
  • Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the fish; larger fish may require up to 30 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Whole Tilapia, Lemon Herb Tilapia, Roasted Tilapia, Healthy Fish Recipe

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Find it online: https://archiverecipes.com/whole-tilapia-recipes/