Balsamic tilapia with lemon and garlic

Balsamic tilapia with lemon and garlic is a simple dish that combines zesty lemon, tangy balsamic vinegar, and garlic to elevate the mild taste of tilapia. This quick recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, creating a flavorful, visually appealing dish.

22 Nov 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp vinegar
1 dash salt
12 oz tilapia
1/2 lemon

Balsamic tilapia with lemon and garlic is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe combines the zesty flavors of lemon and the rich, tangy taste of balsamic vinegar, creating a harmonious blend that complements the mild, delicate flavor of tilapia. With just a handful of ingredients, you can prepare a healthy, delicious, and visually appealing dish that will impress your family and friends.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and a dash of salt until well combined.

3. Marinate Tilapia:
- Place the tilapia fillets in a shallow dish.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the tilapia, ensuring the fillets are well-coated.
- Let the fish marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the citrusy and garlicky flavors.

4. Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with a small amount of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking.

5. Arrange Fillets:
- Transfer the marinated tilapia fillets to the greased baking dish.
- Pour any remaining marinade over the fillets for extra flavor.
- Lay thinly sliced lemon over the tilapia fillets.

6. Bake the Fish:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

7. Serve: Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven. Serve the tilapia fillets hot, garnished with the roasted lemon slices. Optionally, add freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor.

Balsamic tilapia with lemon and garlic is an exquisite combination of flavors that's sure to please your palate and brighten your dinner table. This simple and quick recipe allows you to create a restaurant-quality dish at home, making it an excellent addition to your repertoire. Follow the tips provided to perfect your cooking technique, and enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts.

Balsamic tilapia with lemon and garlic FAQ:

How long should I bake the tilapia?

Bake the tilapia for 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

What should I do if my tilapia is still raw after baking for 20 minutes?

If the tilapia is not yet opaque or flaky after 20 minutes, continue baking for 2-3 minute increments until it reaches the proper doneness, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.

Can I substitute balsamic vinegar with another type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but this may alter the flavor profile slightly.

How should I store leftovers of the balsamic tilapia?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

What can I serve with balsamic tilapia?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the fish.

Tips:

- When selecting tilapia, choose fillets that are firm and smell fresh—these are indicators of good quality and freshness.

- Marinate the tilapia for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish, but avoid marinating for too long to prevent the fish from becoming mushy.

- Use fresh garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor—pre-minced garlic and bottled lemon juice can lack the freshness and vibrant taste of their fresh counterparts.

- Preheat your oven to ensure that the tilapia cooks evenly and achieves a nice, flaky texture.

- If you prefer a crispy finish, you can broil the tilapia for the last few minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent it from burning.

- Pair the tilapia with steamed vegetables or a fresh, green salad for a nutritious and balanced meal.

Nutrition per serving

1 Servings
Calories 350kcal
Protein 70g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 1.64g
Sugar 1.82g
Fat 33g

Balsamic tilapia with lemon and garlic