Basil Baked Tilapia – A Simple and Flavorful Oven-Baked Fish Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Recipe Category: Tilapia
Calories per Serving: 258
Rating: 4.5/5 (17 reviews)
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| White wine | 1/2 cup |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh basil leaves | 1 large bunch (some for layering, some for garnish) |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Bread crumbs | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 258 |
| Total Fat | 4.7g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.2g |
| Cholesterol | 106.6mg |
| Sodium | 192.7mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4.5g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.4g |
| Sugars | 0.8g |
| Protein | 42g |
Description
This Basil Baked Tilapia recipe is an easy, quick, and flavorful option to enjoy a mild, flaky fish like tilapia or flounder. The combination of white wine, fresh basil, and a simple seasoning blend brings out the delicate flavor of the fish, making it a perfect dish for beginners, busy weeknights, or anyone looking for a healthy, light meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a fine dining restaurant, without the fuss.
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature ensures a nice crisp texture on the fish while keeping it juicy inside.
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In a microwave-safe measuring cup, combine the white wine and butter. Microwave on high for about 1 minute or until the butter begins to melt. You should see the butter start to blend with the wine, creating a smooth, fragrant base for the fish.
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Spread fresh basil leaves evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass baking dish. Reserve a few of the larger basil leaves to place on top of the fish later for added flavor and presentation.
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Place the tilapia fillets over the basil leaves, ensuring they are neatly arranged and not overlapping. The basil will infuse the fish with a mild, aromatic flavor as it bakes.
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Add fresh lemon juice to the warm wine and butter mixture, stirring or whisking until everything is well-combined. This tangy acidity helps to brighten up the overall flavor of the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
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Pour the wine-butter-lemon mixture over the tilapia fillets, making sure the fish is evenly coated. This will ensure the fish is moist and flavorful throughout the baking process.
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Season the fish with salt and black pepper to taste. You can adjust the amount of seasoning depending on your personal preferences, but a light touch works well here to let the natural flavors shine.
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Sprinkle onion powder and bread crumbs evenly over the top of the fish fillets. The breadcrumbs will toast beautifully in the oven, adding a slight crunch to the otherwise tender fish. Finish with a pinch of paprika to give the dish a lovely color and a mild smokiness.
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Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the lower third of the preheated oven. Bake for 12 minutes, allowing the fish to cook through but remain tender and moist.
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After 12 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake the fish for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the tilapia is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The fish should have a light golden crust on top, and the flesh should easily separate when tested with a fork.
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Serve immediately. Garnish with the reserved fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness and color. You can also serve it with your favorite side dishes like steamed vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, high-quality tilapia for the best results. If you prefer other mild white fish like flounder or sole, they work equally well in this recipe.
- Experiment with herbs – while basil is the star of this dish, adding fresh thyme or parsley can bring extra depth of flavor if you have them on hand.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, you can broil the fish for the last 2-3 minutes, but be careful not to overcook it.
- If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil can be used in a pinch, but fresh basil will give you the best aromatic experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Basil Baked Tilapia is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. It’s great for busy evenings when you need something on the table in under 30 minutes, and it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted with different herbs or spices depending on your preference. The light wine and butter sauce provides a richness without being heavy, and the basil adds an aromatic touch that makes each bite delightful.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy:
- Lemon Garlic Salmon – Another light fish recipe, perfect for lemon lovers.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp – Quick and easy, with a buttery, garlic-infused sauce.
- Baked Cod with Parmesan Crust – A slightly more indulgent baked fish option with a crispy, cheesy topping.
- Herb-Crusted Trout – For a more rustic, herb-filled take on baked fish.
Enjoy this Basil Baked Tilapia with your favorite sides, and savor a light yet satisfying meal that comes together in no time!
