
Roasted Tilapia with Cauliflower
Prep
15 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my go to weeknight dinners because it comes together in just 40 minutes from start to table. Tilapia is wonderfully mild and delicate, making it perfect for roasting alongside cauliflower, which is packed with vitamin C and fiber to keep you feeling satisfied. The beauty of this dish is how simple it is to prepare yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Garlic, lemon, and fresh thyme do all the heavy lifting flavor wise, while everything roasts on one pan for minimal cleanup. It's healthy, budget friendly, and absolutely delicious.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 4tilapia fillets(about 6 oz each)
- 1 headcauliflower(cut into florets)
- 4 tablespoonsolive oil
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 1lemon(zested and halved)
- 2 teaspoonsfresh thyme(dried or fresh)
- ½ teaspoonsalt
- ¼ teaspoonblack pepper
- ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes(optional)
- 3 tablespoonsfresh parsley(chopped)
- ½ teaspoongarlic powder
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Tip: Parchment paper makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- 2
Toss the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, half the lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Spread them in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; arrange florets in a single layer for even caramelization.
- 3
Roast the cauliflower for 12-15 minutes until the edges begin to turn golden brown.
- 4
While the cauliflower roasts, pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and remaining lemon zest.
Tip: Drying the fish helps it cook evenly and develop better texture.
- 5
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and push the cauliflower to the sides, creating space in the center for the fish fillets.
- 6
Place the tilapia fillets in the center of the baking sheet and drizzle each with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil combined with red pepper flakes if using.
- 7
Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for 8-10 minutes until the tilapia is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Tip: Tilapia cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to keep it moist and tender.
- 8
Transfer the roasted tilapia and cauliflower to serving plates, drizzle with fresh lemon juice, and garnish generously with chopped parsley.
Tip: The fresh parsley and lemon juice add brightness that complements the richness of the roasted vegetables.
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