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Crispy Lemon-Pepper Air Fryer Tilapia
Introduction
Publix Tilapia Fillets offer a mild, versatile fish that's perfect for a quick and healthy meal. Cooking these fillets in an air fryer with a lemon-pepper seasoning not only enhances their natural flavor but also provides a delightfully crispy texture.
This method is an excellent way to enjoy a lighter meal that doesn't skimp on taste or satisfaction. Ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner, this tilapia recipe is simple, quick, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients List - Air Fryer Publix Tilapia Fillets
4 Publix Tilapia Fillets (thawed if frozen)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Fresh lemon slices (for serving)
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy finish.
Season: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of each tilapia fillet.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for about 3-5 minutes. A properly preheated air fryer ensures the fish cooks evenly and gets crispy.
Arrange the seasoned tilapia fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through the cooking time, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve the tilapia hot from the air fryer, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by lemon slices for squeezing over the top.
Pro Tips and Suggestions
Serving suggestion: Pair the tilapia with a side of air-fried asparagus or a fresh salad for a complete, balanced meal.
For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the tilapia fillets before serving.
Tilapia is a versatile fish; feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as Cajun or Italian herbs to match your meal theme.
Interesting Alterations You May Want to Try
Create a crispy crust by lightly dredging the seasoned tilapia fillets in a mixture of almond flour and grated Parmesan before air frying.
For a Mediterranean twist, top the tilapia with a mix of chopped olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese in the last few minutes of cooking.
Add a spicy kick by incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix.
Key Takeaways and Calories
Air frying Publix Tilapia Fillets is a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to prepare fish, offering a meal rich in protein and low in calories.
This cooking method minimizes the need for added fats while maximizing flavor and texture, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals.
A single serving of this lemon-pepper tilapia is approximately 200 calories, varying slightly based on the size of the fillets and the exact amount of oil used.
Conclusion
This Crispy Lemon-Pepper Air Fryer Tilapia recipe showcases the simplicity and deliciousness of cooking with Publix Tilapia Fillets. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a healthy dinner option, this dish promises to deliver on taste without the hassle of lengthy preparation or cleanup.
Enjoy the perfect blend of zesty lemon, bold pepper, and tender tilapia for a meal that's sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.