Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will impress your taste buds without keeping you in the kitchen for hours? Dive into the world of "Foil Packet Tilapia with Zucchini, Lemon, and Butter"! This easy-to-make recipe combines the delicate flavors of tilapia with the freshness of zucchini and zesty lemon, all wrapped up in a convenient foil packet. In just 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that's not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. Whether you're a busy professional or a family on the go, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tilapia fillets
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your tilapia cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare two large pieces of aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long. This will be used to create the foil packets.
- Place one tilapia fillet in the center of each piece of foil. Make sure the shiny side of the foil is facing inward to help retain moisture.
- Season each tilapia fillet generously with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the flavor of the fish.
- Arrange the sliced zucchini evenly around the tilapia fillets on the foil. The zucchini will add a nice texture and flavor to the dish.
- Place a few slices of lemon on top of each fillet. The lemon will infuse the fish with a bright, fresh flavor as it cooks.
- Cut the butter into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the tilapia and zucchini. The butter will melt and create a rich sauce.
- Fold the sides of the foil over the fish and vegetables, then fold the ends to create a sealed packet. Make sure there are no openings for steam to escape.
- Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and transfer them to the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the tilapia is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The zucchini should be tender but still slightly crisp.
- Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Open the foil packets with caution, as steam will escape.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor before serving.
- Serve the tilapia and zucchini directly from the foil packets or transfer to plates. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prep the ingredients in advance. Slice the zucchini and lemon, and season the tilapia fillets so they're ready to go when you are.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the foil packets, such as bell peppers, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color and nutrients.
- Check for Freshness: When selecting your tilapia, look for fillets that are bright and moist with no fishy odor. Fresh fish will yield the best results!
- Seal It Tight: Make sure to fold the foil packets securely to prevent steam from escaping. This will help cook the fish evenly and keep it moist.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add herbs or spices like garlic powder, paprika, or fresh dill to enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
- Perfect Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your cooking time; every oven is different. The tilapia should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your foil packet meal with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious buttery juices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 190kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
