Hello, food enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner option, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor—Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress. So, let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Introduction
Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika is a delightful dish that brings together the mild flavor of tilapia with the rich, savory taste of Parmesan cheese, and a touch of warmth from paprika. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet flavorful. The golden, crispy crust pairs beautifully with the tender, flaky fish, making it a favorite among seafood lovers.
The origin of this recipe can be traced to Mediterranean cuisine, where simple, fresh ingredients are celebrated. The addition of Parmesan and paprika adds a unique twist, elevating the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. This recipe is not only tasty but also a great way to incorporate more fish into your diet, which is rich in essential nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids. So, let’s get ready to make this delightful dish!
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika, you’ll need:
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 4 oz each)
- Lemon, cut into wedges
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both simple and flavorful. The Parmesan cheese provides a rich, nutty flavor, while the paprika adds a hint of spice that complements the mild tilapia perfectly. Don’t forget the lemon wedges, which add a bright, citrusy finish to the dish. If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or omit the salt if you’re watching your sodium intake.
How to Make Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika:
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Line a baking sheet with foil to ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, chopped parsley, and salt (if using). This mixture will form the golden, crispy crust that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Drizzle the tilapia fillets with the extra virgin olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. This step helps the cheese mixture adhere to the fish and adds a lovely richness.
- Coat the fillets: Dredge each tilapia fillet in the Parmesan mixture, pressing it in lightly with your fingers if necessary to ensure the fillets are evenly coated.
- Transfer to the baking sheet: Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Bake: Cook in the preheated oven until the fish is opaque in the thickest part, about 10-12 minutes. The crust should be golden and slightly crisp.
- Serve: Once baked, serve the tilapia with lemon wedges on the side. The fresh lemon juice adds a burst of citrus that balances the rich, savory flavors of the dish.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. The steps are simple, and the result is a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress.
Helpful Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika turns out perfectly every time:
- Use fresh Parmesan: Grating your Parmesan cheese from a block rather than using pre-grated cheese can make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Check for doneness: To avoid overcooking, check the tilapia’s doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s ready.
- Customize the seasoning: If you prefer a bit more heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Parmesan mixture. For a more herbaceous flavor, increase the amount of parsley or add other fresh herbs like thyme or dill.
Cooking Tips
To take your Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika to the next level, consider these additional cooking tips:
- Use a fish spatula: A fish spatula is thinner and more flexible than a regular spatula, making it easier to handle delicate fish fillets without breaking them.
- Crispier crust: For an even crispier crust, try broiling the tilapia for the last minute of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Add a drizzle of lemon butter: For extra richness, melt a tablespoon of butter and mix it with a squeeze of lemon juice, then drizzle it over the fillets just before serving.
These tips will help you achieve a perfectly cooked, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving suggestions, this Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Serve with a fresh salad: A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the tilapia. Consider a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon or balsamic dressing.
- Pair with roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or baby carrots would add a delicious, nutritious side to your meal.
- Accompany with a glass of white wine: A light, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the delicate flavors of the tilapia.
For an elegant presentation, arrange the fillets on a platter with lemon wedges and fresh parsley sprigs.
Nutritional Information
This Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let’s take a look at the nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Potassium: 440mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Vitamin A: 10% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 5% of DV
- Calcium: 25% of DV
- Iron: 6% of DV
This dish is high in protein and provides a good source of calcium and iron. The tilapia is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. The addition of Parmesan adds calcium, while the paprika provides a small boost of vitamin A. This meal is a balanced, nutrient-dense option that can fit into a variety of healthy eating plans.
Storage and Leftovers
To keep your Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the fillets on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350ºF oven for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
If you have leftovers, get creative! Flake the tilapia into pieces and use it to top a salad, mix it into a pasta dish, or create a delicious fish taco with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika:
Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute tilapia with other mild, white fish such as cod, haddock, or flounder. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.
Is there a dairy-free option?
You can use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative made from nuts or nutritional yeast to achieve a similar flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have paprika?
If you don’t have paprika, you can use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or try chili powder for a spicier kick.
These FAQs should help address any concerns or questions you might have as you prepare this dish.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like these related dishes:
These recipes are equally easy to make and full of flavor, making them perfect additions to your meal rotation.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed learning how to make this Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika. It’s a dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. I encourage you to give it a try and see how the flavors come together in a delightful, crispy, and tender bite.
Don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you make to the recipe. Your feedback is always welcome, and I’m excited to hear how this dish turns out for you. Happy cooking!
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Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika
Description
Hello, food enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner option, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor—Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress. So, let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 4 oz each)
- Lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
sted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Golden Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with a Hint of Paprika:
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF. Line a baking sheet with foil to ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, chopped parsley, and salt (if using). This mixture will form the golden, crispy crust that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Drizzle the tilapia fillets with the extra virgin olive oil, ensuring they are well-coated. This step helps the cheese mixture adhere to the fish and adds a lovely richness.
- Coat the fillets: Dredge each tilapia fillet in the Parmesan mixture, pressing it in lightly with your fingers if necessary to ensure the fillets are evenly coated.
- Transfer to the baking sheet: Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Bake: Cook in the preheated oven until the fish is opaque in the thickest part, about 10-12 minutes. The crust should be golden and slightly crisp.
- Serve: Once baked, serve the tilapia with lemon wedges on the side. The fresh lemon juice adds a burst of citrus that balances the rich, savory flavors of the dish.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh Parmesan: Grating your Parmesan cheese from a block rather than using pre-grated cheese can make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Check for doneness: To avoid overcooking, check the tilapia’s doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s ready.
- Customize the seasoning: If you prefer a bit more heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Parmesan mixture. For a more herbaceous flavor, increase the amount of parsley or add other fresh herbs like thyme or dill.
