Air Fryer Tilapia with Fresh Lemon Pepper Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 (6 ounce) tilapia fillets
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoons coarsely ground black peppercorns
• teaspoon salt
• 1 pinch paprika, or to taste
• Cooking spray
• 1 sprig parsley, chopped, or more to taste
• 4 wedges lemon

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C) for 3 minutes.
2. While the air fryer is heating, rinse the tilapia fillets and gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
4. Rub the lemon-oil mixture over the tops of the fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, sprinkle lightly with paprika for added flavor.
5. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
6. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket, spice-side up. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket if necessary, cook the fillets in batches.
7. Cook in the preheated air fryer for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
8. Once cooked, remove the fillets from the air fryer and place them onto a plate. Garnish with chopped parsley.
9. Serve the tilapia fillets with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.

Recipe Tip

Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets and the type of air fryer you are using. Adjust accordingly for best results.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 239
• Total Fat: 9g (12% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 1g (7% DV)
• Cholesterol: 62mg (21% DV)
• Sodium: 372mg (16% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 3g (1% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (5% DV)
• Total Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 35g (70% DV)
• Vitamin C: 26mg (29% DV)
• Calcium: 81mg (6% DV)
• Iron: 1mg (7% DV)
• Potassium: 767mg (16% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your individual needs.

History of the Dish:

The history of cooking tilapia dates back to ancient Egypt, where this mild, white fish was commonly found in the Nile River. Tilapia became widely recognized in Western cuisine in the 20th century, due to its sustainability and mild flavor. The pairing of tilapia with lemon pepper seasoning, however, is a more recent development. This fusion began to gain popularity in the United States during the late 20th century, as lemon pepper seasoningmade with dried lemon zest and cracked black pepperbecame a staple in American kitchens. Air frying, which became popular in the 2000s as a healthier alternative to deep frying, has only recently been used in the preparation of tilapia, combining the health benefits of air frying with the fresh flavors of lemon pepper for a quick, delicious meal.

Regional Features:

Air Fryer Tilapia with Fresh Lemon Pepper is not traditionally tied to any specific regional cuisine but is often found in American households, particularly in coastal areas where fresh seafood is abundant. The dish reflects the growing trend of using kitchen gadgets like air fryers to simplify meal preparation. In regions like the Southeastern United States, where tilapia is commonly farmed, this recipe is often enjoyed for dinner or as part of a light, healthy meal. In more Mediterranean regions, you may find a similar version of tilapia with lemon and olive oil, but the use of air fryers is relatively new to these culinary traditions.

How it Differs from Similar Dishes:

When compared to other fish dishes, Air Fryer Tilapia with Fresh Lemon Pepper stands out due to its use of the air fryer for cooking. Traditional methods of preparing tilapia often involve pan-frying, grilling, or baking, which can add more oil and take longer. The air fryer, however, cooks the fish quickly, ensuring a crispy texture with much less oil. Another unique aspect is the freshness of the lemon zest and pepper combination, giving the dish a bright and tangy flavor profile that differs from the richer, more buttery flavors often found in other fish recipes. While baked lemon pepper chicken or salmon are popular in many households, tilapia offers a lighter, flakier option with a more delicate taste.

Where is it Typically Served?

This dish is commonly served in casual dining settings, including home dinners, seafood restaurants, and health-conscious eateries. Due to its quick preparation and healthy ingredients, it is ideal for busy families looking for a nutritious weeknight meal. It is often paired with side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. In more upscale restaurants, it may be served with additional garnishes like roasted garlic or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors. The dishs versatility makes it suitable for both informal family meals and elegant dinner parties.

Fun Facts:

• The tilapia fish is sometimes called the aquatic chicken due to its mild flavor and firm texture, making it a popular substitute for other white fish like cod or haddock.
• The air fryer was invented in the Netherlands in 2010 and has since become one of the most popular kitchen appliances worldwide.
• Lemon pepper seasoning was originally used as a marinade for meats, but its versatility has made it a favorite for fish dishes, giving a zesty and aromatic touch without overwhelming the natural flavors of the seafood.
• Tilapia is one of the most widely farmed fish species in the world, making it a sustainable and affordable option for home cooks.

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