This recipe elevates simple tilapia fillets into a gourmet dish with the briny heartiness of artichoke hearts and the sharp, salty bite of Parmesan cheese. It's surprisingly quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and impressive enough for a dinner party. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Artichoke Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
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Season the Tilapia: Season the tilapia fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tilapia fillets in a lightly oiled baking dish. Top each fillet generously with the artichoke and Parmesan mixture.
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Bake to Perfection: Drizzle the olive oil over the fillets and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tilapia is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen tilapia. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat the fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure even browning.
What other cheeses can I use instead of Parmesan?
While Parmesan is a classic choice, you can experiment with other hard cheeses like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a sharp cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Sauté the tilapia fillets in olive oil over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Then, top with the artichoke mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can reduce the amount of mayonnaise used or substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a lower-fat option. You can also add more vegetables to the dish, such as chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, for added nutrients.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or incorporate different herbs like dill or oregano. Lemon zest would also add a bright, citrusy note. You could even add a handful of crumbled bacon for extra richness.
This Artichoke and Parmesan Tilapia recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility allows for easy customization to suit your tastes and preferences. Enjoy!
