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If you're looking for a dish that bursts with fresh flavors and is quick to prepare, Zesty Lemon Pepper Tilapia with Garlic Spinach is the perfect choice. This vibrant meal combines tender tilapia fillets, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic-infused spinach to create a delightful dining experience that is both satisfying and nutritious. Not only does this dish showcase the natural flavors of its ingredients, but it also emphasizes the importance of incorporating healthy seafood into our diets, making it an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Lemon Pepper Tilapia with Garlic Spinach

Discover the vibrant flavors of Zesty Lemon Pepper Tilapia with Garlic Spinach, a quick and nutritious dish perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe features fresh tilapia fillets marinated in zesty lemon and paired with aromatic garlic spinach, delivering a deliciously satisfying meal. Packed with lean protein, essential vitamins, and antioxidants, this dish not only pleases the palate but also supports a healthy lifestyle. Experience the joy of cooking with fresh ingredients and elevate your dining experience!
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Ingredients
  

For the Lemon Pepper Tilapia:

4 tilapia fillets

2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for cooking)

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 garlic clove, minced

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Garlic Spinach:

4 cups fresh spinach leaves, thoroughly washed

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Tilapia: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, sea salt, and minced garlic. Place the tilapia fillets in the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and let them marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes while you prepare the spinach.

    Sauté the Spinach: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Stir in the fresh spinach along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted and tender. For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice. Remove the skillet from heat and set the garlic spinach aside.

      Cook the Tilapia: In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if necessary, then increase the heat to medium-high. Once hot, gently add the marinated tilapia fillets to the skillet. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, cooking in batches if needed.

        Serve: On a large serving platter, create a generous bed of the sautéed garlic spinach. Place each perfectly cooked tilapia fillet atop the greens and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For a vibrant touch, serve with lemon wedges on the side to enhance the citrus flavor.

          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings