Description
This Tilapia Scampi recipe offers a deliciously simple way to enjoy tender tilapia fillets cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and white wine, perfect for a quick and flavorful main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 tilapia fillets
For Cooking
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Season the Tilapia: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear the Fish: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tilapia fillets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Carefully remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside.
- Prepare the Scampi Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth along with the fresh lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate the flavors.
- Combine and Garnish: Return the cooked tilapia fillets to the skillet, spooning the buttery sauce over each piece to coat them well. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the fish as desired.
Notes
- Serve this dish alongside pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- You can substitute tilapia with other white fish such as cod or haddock if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- For a non-alcoholic option, use chicken broth instead of white wine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
