Pan-Seared Lemon Tilapia with Parmesan Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

Pasta:

• 4 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon light olive oil
• cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 pinch garlic powder
• 1 pinch dried basil
• 1 pinch dried oregano
• 1 pinch dried cilantro (Optional)
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Fish:

• 2 tablespoons light olive oil
• 2 tilapia fillets
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Directions

1. Start the pasta: Bring a saucepan of lightly salted water to a boil over medium heat. Stir in macaroni and return to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes.
2. Prepare the fish: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle tilapia fillets on both sides with lemon juice, oregano, basil, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Carefully place fillets in the hot skillet, ensuring they don't touch each other. Sear the fillets until golden brown on the outside and opaque and flaky on the inside, about 2 to 4 minutes per side. Once done, transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Finish the pasta: Drain the cooked macaroni and return it to the saucepan. Add the olive oil and stir to coat the pasta. Mix in Parmesan cheese, then add lemon juice, garlic powder, basil, oregano, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until well combined.
4. Assemble the dish: Divide the pasta between two plates. Top each serving with a tilapia fillet. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.