Grilled Tilapia with Smoky Paprika
Grilled Tilapia with Smoky Paprika is a simple yet flavorful seafood dish featuring tender tilapia fillets seasoned with smoky paprika, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests at barbecues. This healthy, low-calorie recipe is versatile and appealing for the whole family.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets (fresh or thawed, about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice until well blended to form the marinade.
- Marinate the Fish: Place tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and brush both sides generously with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the smoky and zesty flavors.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Grill the Tilapia: Place the marinated fillets on the grill, skin-side down if applicable, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until the fish is opaque and flakes easily, developing a slightly charred smoky crust.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from grill, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired, and serve warm to enjoy the full depth of smoky paprika flavor.
Notes
- Choose fresh tilapia for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not skip the olive oil to keep the fish moist during grilling.
- Use smoked paprika rather than regular paprika for authentic smoky flavor.
- Preheat the grill thoroughly to ensure perfect sear marks and prevent sticking.
- Use a wide spatula when flipping to keep fillets intact.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (6 oz)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Grilled Tilapia, Smoky Paprika, Seafood Recipe, Healthy Fish Recipe, Quick Dinner, BBQ Fish