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Zesty Grilled Cilantro Lime Tilapia is an irresistibly vibrant dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. With its bright, zesty notes from fresh lime and the aromatic essence of cilantro, this tilapia recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the freshness of a well-prepared meal. It showcases the delightful combination of tender fish and a tangy marinade, making it not just a feast for the palate but also a visually appealing dish that can impress family and friends alike.

Grilled Cilantro Lime Tilapia

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Grilled Cilantro Lime Tilapia, a delicious and healthy dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This recipe features tender tilapia marinated in a zesty blend of lime, cilantro, garlic, and spices, making it both nutritious and visually appealing. In just 30 minutes, you can serve a flavorful meal that’s low in calories and high in protein. Impress your family with this refreshing seafood dish that's both simple to prepare and packed with health benefits. Enjoy a burst of freshness with every bite!

Ingredients
  

4 tilapia fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 ripe limes)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Optional: lime wedges and additional cilantro for garnishing

Instructions
 

Marinate the Fish: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Whisk the marinade until well combined. Place the tilapia fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the fillets, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the dish tightly or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the fish to absorb the marinade.

    Preheat the Grill: While the fish marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using a charcoal grill, set up a two-zone fire by placing hot coals on one side of the grill and leaving the other side empty for indirect cooking.

      Prepare the Grill Grate: To prevent sticking, use a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to lightly oil the grill grates. This will help ensure the fish cooks smoothly without tearing.

        Grill the Tilapia: After the grill has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove the tilapia fillets from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the fillets directly on the grill grates. Grill the tilapia for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Look for nice grill marks to indicate that the fish is perfectly cooked. If available, you can use a fish basket to make handling the fillets easier and to prevent them from breaking apart.

          Serve: Once cooked, carefully take the tilapia off the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. For an attractive presentation, garnish the fillets with extra fresh cilantro and lime wedges. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings