Southwestern Baked Tilapia
This Southwestern baked tilapia is delicious served with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. It's a versatile dish that's perfect for a quick and healthy dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets about 6 ounces each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lime juiced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Tilapia:Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.Place the tilapia fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each fillet.
- Season the Tilapia:In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to form a paste.Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets, ensuring they are well coated.Drizzle the lime juice over the seasoned tilapia fillets.
- Bake the Tilapia:Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the tilapia for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Garnish and Serve:Once the tilapia is cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven.Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro over the baked tilapia fillets.Serve the Southwestern baked tilapia hot, garnished with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish.
- Enjoy your flavorful Southwestern baked tilapia!