Roasted Tilapia with Celery

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with sea salt and black pepper.

   Tip: Drying the fish helps it develop a better texture during roasting.

2. 2

   Arrange celery pieces on a large baking sheet, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle with minced garlic. Roast for 8 minutes until the celery begins to soften slightly.

   Tip: Precooking the celery ensures it will be tender and cooked through at the same time as the fish.

3. 3

   Remove baking sheet from oven and nestle the seasoned tilapia fillets among the celery pieces. Drizzle fish with remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

4. 4

   Pour white wine around (not over) the fish and celery. Place a thyme sprig on top of each fillet and dot with butter pieces.

   Tip: The wine adds moisture and flavor to the dish while steaming the delicate fish.

5. 5

   Return to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until tilapia is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

   Tip: Tilapia cooks quickly, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking and drying it out.

6. 6

   Carefully transfer tilapia and celery to serving plates. Drizzle the pan juices and melted butter over the fish, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over each portion before serving.

   Tip: The accumulated pan juices create a light sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully.