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In the realm of easy and delicious weeknight dinners, Zesty Lemon Garlic Tilapia with Herb Rice stands out as a refreshing option. This recipe combines the delicate flavors of tilapia with the vibrant zing of lemon and garlic, creating a dish that is both healthy and satisfying. Perfectly suited for busy evenings, it offers a quick preparation time without compromising on taste or nutritional value. The herb-infused rice serves as the ideal accompaniment, providing a fragrant and flavorful base that complements the tilapia beautifully. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish provides a straightforward yet flavorful experience that is sure to impress family and friends.

Lemon Garlic Tilapia with Herb Rice

Discover the joy of preparing Zesty Lemon Garlic Tilapia with Herb Rice, a perfect weeknight dinner that's both healthy and flavorful. This dish showcases the fresh taste of tilapia marinated in bright lemon and aromatic garlic, served alongside fragrant herb-infused rice. Ideal for anyone from novice cooks to seasoned chefs, this recipe is quick to make, taking less than 30 minutes. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients without compromising on taste!
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Ingredients
  

For the Lemon Garlic Tilapia:

4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Zest and juice of 2 lemons

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Herb Rice:

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups water or vegetable broth

1 tablespoon butter

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

Prepare the Herb Rice:

    - In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.

      - Add the rice, butter, salt, thyme, and oregano. Stir well, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

        - Once cooked, remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Set aside.

          Marinate the Tilapia:

            - In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.

              - Place the tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure they are well-coated, then let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for more flavor).

                Cook the Tilapia:

                  - Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, remove the tilapia from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off (but don’t discard it).

                    - Add the fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

                      - In the last minute of cooking, add the reserved marinade to the skillet to create a sauce, cooking for an additional minute.

                        Serve:

                          - Place a generous scoop of herb rice on each plate and top with the lemon garlic tilapia.

                            - Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

                              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4