How to Make Pan-Seared Tilapia

Pan sear tilapia in less than 10 minutes.

Tilapia is a mild white fish that is easy to dress up with a sauce or serve plain. If you want dinner on the table quickly, grab a skillet and pan sear tilapia fillets. A little seasoning and a hot pan is all you need for a healthy meal.

Things You'll Need

• Saute pan
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2 boneless tilapia fillets
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground pepper
• Lemon
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Coat the pan with the nonstick cooking spray.

2. Heat the pan on medium-high heat.

3. Season each tilapia fillet with the salt and pepper by packing it on with your hand. Coat each side of the tilapia fillets, making sure to evenly distribute the spices.

4. Place the tilapia fillets in the pan and allow them to sear on one side for four to five minutes before flipping the fillet. Try to flip the fillets only once while they are pan-searing so they do not break apart. Cook the fish on the second side for about three minutes, or until the fish flakes and begin to brown.

5. During the last minute of cooking, squeeze lemon juice into the pan for additional flavor.

6. Gently remove the tilapia from the pan and serve.

Tips & Warnings

• For an extra crispy exterior, turn the heat to high for the last 15 to 30 seconds.

References

• "Better Homes and Gardens": Pan Seared Tilapia with Almond Browned Butter and Snow Peas
• Betty Crocker: Pan-Seared Tilapia with Lemon-Butter Sauce