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Grilled Tilapia Recipe | Light, Smoky and Perfect for Summer Meals

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice (from about 2 lemons)
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 4 Tilapia Fillets (6 ounces each, about 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick)
  • 1 tablespoon High-Smoke-Point Oil (canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil)

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
  • Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels. Place them in a shallow dish and pour about three-quarters of the marinade over them, reserving the rest. Marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F / 205-230°C). Once hot, thoroughly clean the grates with a wire brush.
  • Using long-handled tongs, dip a folded paper towel in high-smoke-point oil and wipe the hot grates to create a non-stick surface.
  • Place the marinated tilapia on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, with the lid closed. Flip only when the fish releases easily from the grate.
  • The fish is done when it's opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should read 145°F (63°C).
  • Transfer the fish to a platter and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Drizzle with the reserved marinade before serving.

Notes

The number one rule for grilling fish is a clean, well-oiled grill grate. Don't skip this step, or you'll be scraping fish off the grill instead of serving it.
Keyword grilled tilapia recipe, seafood