• Tilapia Fillets: 1.5 – 2 lbs, about 4-6 fillets. Tilapia is a mild white fish that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Look for fillets that are about the same thickness for even cooking.
• Fresh Lemons: 2 medium-sized lemons. One lemon will be used for juicing, providing the bright citrus flavor base of the dish, and the other will be sliced for baking, infusing the fish with aromatic lemon zest.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated. Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melting quality. Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich element that pairs perfectly with lemon and fish.
• Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, extra virgin. Olive oil adds moisture and richness to the dish, helps the parmesan adhere to the fish, and contributes to a golden-brown crust. Extra virgin olive oil offers the best flavor and nutritional benefits.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic provides a pungent and savory base note that enhances the overall flavor profile without overpowering the delicate fish.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon. Oregano adds a subtle herbaceous and slightly peppery flavor that complements both lemon and parmesan.
• Dried Parsley: 1 teaspoon. Parsley provides a fresh, clean, and slightly peppery flavor that brightens the dish and adds a touch of green color.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste. Salt enhances all the flavors in the recipe and is crucial for seasoning the fish properly.
• Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice that balances the acidity of the lemon and the richness of the parmesan.
• Optional: Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular): ¼ cup (for extra crispy topping). Breadcrumbs add a textural element, creating a crispy crust on top of the fish. Panko breadcrumbs will provide a lighter, crispier texture, while regular breadcrumbs will offer a denser, slightly more crumbly topping.
