Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Lemon Pepper Fish is a delicious and light dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With the vibrant and tangy flavor of lemon combined with the aromatic zest of black pepper, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to incorporate more fish into your diet, this recipe is both healthy and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or bass)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and minced garlic.
- Place the fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the fish fillets, then pour the lemon pepper mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
- Bake the fish for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Lemon Pepper Fish: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of hot sauce to the seasoning for an added kick.
- Herb-infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill into the seasoning mixture for a fragrant twist.
- Crispy Lemon Pepper Fish: Coat the fish fillets in breadcrumbs or panko before baking for a crispy texture.
- Lemon Pepper Fish with Vegetables: Place thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or onions on the baking sheet with the fish for a one-pan meal.
- Grilled Lemon Pepper Fish: Instead of baking, grill the fish fillets for a smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the fish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the texture may not be as crispy.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. What type of fish works best for Lemon Pepper Fish?
Tilapia, cod, and bass are great options, but you can use any mild white fish.
3. Can I add more lemon flavor to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add more lemon juice or zest, depending on how strong you want the lemon flavor to be.
4. Can I use other spices instead of black pepper?
Yes! You can experiment with paprika, cayenne pepper, or even garlic powder for different flavors.
5. Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop instead of baking it?
Yes, you can pan-sear the fish fillets on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
6. How do I know when the fish is cooked through?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.
8. Can I prepare the lemon pepper seasoning ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the seasoning in advance and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it.
9. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this recipe is low in carbs and can be a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
10. What side dishes pair well with Lemon Pepper Fish?
Lemon Pepper Fish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
Lemon Pepper Fish is a simple yet flavorful recipe that brings together the bright and zesty flavors of lemon and pepper to complement the delicate taste of the fish. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal effort. Try out different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a healthy, delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
PrintLemon Pepper Fish
This Lemon Pepper Fish recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Made with fresh fish fillets, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic black pepper, it’s baked to perfection in just 15 minutes. Enjoy a light and refreshing seafood meal that’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and packed with delicious flavors.
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 15min
- Total Time: 25min
- Yield: 4servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (tilapia, cod, or bass)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and minced garlic.
- Place the fish fillets on a parchment-lined or lightly greased baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and evenly pour the lemon pepper mixture over each fillet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley (if desired), and serve hot.
Notes
- Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Crispy Version: Coat in panko breadcrumbs before baking.
- Stovetop Alternative: Pan-sear on medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Grilled Option: Grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.