This recipe elevates simple tilapia fillets into a gourmet dish, showcasing the delightful combination of artichoke hearts, creamy parmesan cheese, and bright lemon. It’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The delicate flavor of the tilapia complements the rich artichoke and parmesan, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Let's dive in!
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6-8 ounces each)
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
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Prepare the Artichoke Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the quartered artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy artichoke topping.
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Preheat Oven & Prepare Tilapia: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
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Assemble & Bake: Place the tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the artichoke mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, ensuring they are well coated.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The topping should be golden brown and bubbly.
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about this artichoke and parmesan tilapia recipe, answered to ensure you have a seamless cooking experience:
Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen tilapia fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before adding the artichoke topping, this will help them crisp up better in the oven.
What other cheeses can I use besides Parmesan?
While Parmesan is a classic choice that delivers a fantastic salty and nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses. Asiago, Romano, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would work well. Keep in mind that the melting properties might vary slightly.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you could reduce the amount of mayonnaise used in the artichoke mixture. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise to lower the fat content. Using less Parmesan cheese will also reduce the overall calories. Consider adding more vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach to the baking dish for extra nutrients.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the artichoke mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble and bake the tilapia. This will save you some time on busy weeknights. However, it's best to bake the tilapia just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
What can I serve with this tilapia dish?
This artichoke and parmesan tilapia is incredibly versatile. It pairs perfectly with:
- Roasted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts)
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Quinoa or brown rice
- Crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce
This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly impressive dish. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy!
