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Garlic Butter Tilapia & Veggies - Fast, Flavorful, and Family-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Tilapia fillets (4 fillets, about 1–1.25 lbs total)
  • Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Fresh garlic (4–5 cloves, minced)
  • Lemon (1, zested and juiced)
  • Fresh parsley (small bunch, chopped)
  • Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, 1/4 teaspoon)
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Assorted vegetables (about 6 cups total), such as: Broccoli florets
  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Thinly sliced bell peppers
  • Zucchini or yellow squash (half-moons)
  • Green beans, trimmed
  • Red onion, sliced
  • Asparagus, trimmed
  • Optional add-ons: Grated Parmesan, capers, or a splash of white wine

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
  2. Prep the veggies: Cut vegetables into bite-size pieces so they roast evenly. Aim for similar thickness—think 1/2-inch slices or small florets.
  3. Toss and season: On the baking sheet, toss veggies with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a big pinch of salt, and pepper. Spread into a single layer.
  4. Start roasting: Roast veggies for 10 minutes while you prep the fish and sauce. This gives them a head start.
  5. Pat the tilapia dry: Use paper towels to remove extra moisture. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  6. Make the garlic butter: In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter with 1 tablespoon olive oil over low heat. Stir in minced garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook gently for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in half the parsley and 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice.
  7. Arrange the fish: Pull the baking sheet from the oven. Scoot veggies to the sides and place tilapia fillets in the center. Spoon about half the garlic butter over the fish and drizzle a little over the veggies.
  8. Roast to finish: Return to the oven for 8–10 minutes, depending on fillet thickness. Tilapia is done when it flakes easily and reaches an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).
  9. Optional broil: For slight char and extra color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch closely.
  10. Final touch: Spoon remaining garlic butter over the fish and veggies. Sprinkle with the rest of the parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon. Serve right away.