Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients that balance freshness and depth. I always recommend using the freshest tilapia fillets you can find—firm, white flesh with no fishy smell. For the sauce, roasted red peppers bring a lovely sweetness and smokiness, but you can easily swap in jarred roasted peppers if fresh ones aren’t available. I’ve also played with adding a touch of smoked paprika or fresh herbs, depending on what’s in season or in my pantry.
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each), skinless
- 2 large roasted red bell peppers, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish and season the tilapia fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Transfer the roasted red peppers to a blender or food processor. Add the sautéed onions and garlic, broth, and smoked paprika if using. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Pour a thin layer of the roasted pepper sauce into the bottom of the baking dish. Nestle the tilapia fillets on top, then spoon the remaining sauce evenly over each fillet.
- Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.
- Optionally, stir sour cream or Greek yogurt into the remaining sauce before spooning over the fish for a creamier finish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
