If you’re looking for a flavorful seafood dish that transports you straight to the heart of Italy, look no further than this baked tilapia recipe. Infused with the vibrant flavors of tomatoes and Italian herbs, this meal is a delightful blend of simplicity and taste. It’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
This Italian Baked Tilapia is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can serve up a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. Your kitchen will be filled with the aromatic scent of baked fish and fresh herbs, making it hard to resist until dinner is served.
A Flavorful Italian Seafood Dish
This baked tilapia dish captures the essence of Italian cuisine with its vibrant ingredients and simple preparation. The combination of flaky tilapia fillets, juicy cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful experience for the senses.
The succulent fish is paired with bold flavors, making it an inviting option for any meal. The freshness of the tomatoes and the brightness of the basil elevate the dish, while the garlic adds an aromatic depth that enhances every bite.
The Art of Plating
Presentation plays a vital role in making any meal appealing. For this baked tilapia, a rustic wooden table serves as a charming backdrop, enhancing the dish’s natural colors.
The tilapia is adorned with vibrant halved cherry tomatoes and sprinkled with fresh basil, offering a visual feast that is hard to resist. The golden hue of the fish contrasts beautifully with the reds and greens, creating an inviting platter.
Simple Yet Flavorful Ingredients
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. With just a few items, you can achieve a flavorful dish that tastes as if it came from a gourmet restaurant.
The key ingredients include tender tilapia fillets, fresh cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and aromatic herbs. These components come together harmoniously to create a light and satisfying meal that is perfect for seafood enthusiasts.
Cooking Techniques for Success
To achieve flaky and tender tilapia, preheating the oven is essential. A temperature of 400°F (200°C) sets the stage for optimal cooking conditions, ensuring the fish remains moist while developing a slight crust on the outside.
Layering the seasoned tomatoes and garlic over the tilapia not only infuses the fish with flavor but also provides a burst of color and texture. The baking time is crucial; just 20-25 minutes in the oven allows the fish to cook through without drying out.
No dish is complete without the right accompaniments. Serving this baked tilapia with lemon wedges adds a refreshing zest that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
The tangy lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the fish, creating an enjoyable dining experience. It also encourages diners to customize their plates, allowing each person to enhance their meal according to their taste.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This baked tilapia dish is not only a delight for the palate but also a nutritious choice. With a serving size of four, each portion contains approximately 220 calories, which makes it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Rich in protein and low in carbohydrates, it serves as a healthy main course option. Pair it with a light salad or whole-grain side to complete the meal and enjoy a satisfying dining experience that leaves you feeling nourished.
A Flavorful Italian Seafood Dish
This Italian Baked Tilapia with Tomatoes features tender fillets of tilapia topped with juicy tomatoes, garlic, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The result is a light yet satisfying dish that is both refreshing and comforting, perfect for any seafood lover.
The combination of the flaky tilapia and the roasted tomatoes creates a beautiful harmony of flavors that is both savory and slightly sweet, making each bite a delicious experience.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: In a baking dish, drizzle olive oil and place the tilapia fillets in a single layer.
- Add the Toppings: In a bowl, mix the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Spoon this mixture evenly over the tilapia.
- Bake the Fish: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
