As the summer sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and cooking up a delicious meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying. And what better way to do just that than with grilled tilapia? This mild-flavored fish is a perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and seasonings, making it an ideal choice for warm-weather cookouts.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering grilled tilapia recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like lemon garlic and honey lime, to more adventurous options like spicy Cajun and coconut curry, there’s something on this list for every taste bud. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the flavors of summer!
Lemon Garlic Grilled Tilapia
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing Lemon Garlic Grilled Tilapia recipe. Flaky tilapia fillets are marinated in a zesty lemon-garlic mixture, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Add tilapia fillets to the marinade, making sure they’re coated evenly. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove tilapia from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Grilled Tilapia
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic tilapia dish! This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, the brightness of lemon juice, and the smokiness of grilled fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Season the tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and the Cajun spice mixture.
4. Brush both sides of the tilapia with olive oil.
5. Grill the tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Lime Grilled Tilapia
This recipe combines the freshness of lime with the richness of honey to create a flavorful and moist grilled tilapia dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, olive oil, and garlic powder.
3. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the honey-lime mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill tilapia for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Mediterranean Herb Grilled Tilapia
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional grilled fish, this Mediterranean Herb Grilled Tilapia is a perfect summer dish that combines the freshness of herbs with the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, oregano, thyme, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the tilapia fillets.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill tilapia for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Coconut Curry Grilled Tilapia
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful Coconut Curry Grilled Tilapia recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. With the bold flavors of coconut, curry, and lemon, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of tilapia fillets.
4. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with lemon wedges and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pesto Grilled Tilapia with Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavor of pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up in a perfectly grilled tilapia filet. The result is a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto and 1 tbsp olive oil.
3. Brush both sides of tilapia fillets with the pesto mixture.
4. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While tilapia is cooking, place cherry tomatoes on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
6. Serve grilled tilapia with cherry tomatoes and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Add a tropical twist to your grilled fish with this flavorful recipe, featuring blackened tilapia and a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa ingredients:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tbsp lime juice
+ 1 tsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and olive oil.
3. Brush both sides of tilapia fillets with the blackening mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango salsa ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.
7. Serve grilled tilapia with mango salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Grilled Tilapia
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Asian-inspired flavors with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Glazed Grilled Tilapia recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend grill-out, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow dish; brush both sides with the teriyaki glaze.
4. Grill tilapia for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Grilled Tilapia Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the delicate taste of grilled tilapia with creamy avocado crema. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Avocado crema (see below for recipe)
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and diced tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and brush with the marinade. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing grilled tilapia on tortillas, topping with avocado crema, and garnishing with cilantro, lime wedges, and diced tomatoes.
Avocado Crema Recipe:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Mash avocados in a bowl. Mix in sour cream, lime juice, and salt. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Grilled Tilapia
This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the best in tilapia, with a rich garlic butter sauce that complements its delicate flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Place tilapia fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, brush garlic butter mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Remove from heat, squeeze with lemon juice, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of grilled tilapia with the sweet and tangy taste of pineapple salsa, creating a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl.
5. Stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve grilled tilapia with pineapple salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Paprika Grilled Tilapia
Elevate your grilled fish game with this smoky and savory recipe that pairs perfectly with a summer evening. With a bold flavor profile, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the tilapia fillets.
4. Place the tilapia on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Lemon Dill Sauce
A refreshing summer dish that combines the flaky goodness of tilapia with a zesty and herby lemon dill sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine lemon juice, olive oil, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled tilapia with Lemon Dill Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Grilled Tilapia
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tilapia with this Jamaican Jerk Grilled Tilapia recipe. The bold and aromatic jerk seasoning will transport your taste buds to the Caribbean islands.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and brush the jerk mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill tilapia for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Herb Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with a rich and herby butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon slices for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, parsley, dill, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread herb butter evenly over each fillet.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Asian-Style Grilled Tilapia with Ginger Soy Glaze
Experience the harmonious balance of Asian flavors on a tender and flaky tilapia fillet, grilled to perfection. This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and savory notes that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic powder.
3. Brush the glaze on both sides of tilapia fillets.
4. Grill tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite Asian-inspired sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Tomato Basil Relish
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the tender taste of grilled tilapia with a tangy tomato basil relish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Grill tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and olive oil in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled tilapia with tomato basil relish spooned over the top.
6. Squeeze lemon juice (if using) and garnish with fresh herbs for added flair.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Marinade
Elevate your grilled fish game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, perfect for a light and healthy dinner. This Cilantro Lime Marinade adds a zesty twist to the classic tilapia.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth, then transfer the marinade to a shallow dish.
3. Place tilapia fillets in the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove fish from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing combination of grilled tilapia and tangy chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the tilapia with chimichurri sauce.
5. Grill tilapia for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with additional chimichurri sauce on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of grilled tilapia paired with a vibrant roasted red pepper sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Roast red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred.
4. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, then puree in a blender or food processor with lemon juice.
5. Serve grilled tilapia with roasted red pepper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your summer with these 20 delicious grilled tilapia recipes! From classic lemon garlic and spicy Cajun to international flavors like coconut curry and teriyaki glazed, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing tilapia with sweet mango salsa or tangy pineapple salsa, or add some Mediterranean flair with herb butter and cherry tomatoes. Whether you’re in the mood for a zesty cumin-based marinade or a creamy cilantro lime sauce, these recipes will have you grilling like a pro all season long.
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