Herb-Rubbed Tilapia from Perkins features tender tilapia fillets seasoned with a fragrant blend of fresh herbs, lightly pan-seared to golden perfection, and served with a side of vibrant vegetables, offering a flavorful and visually appealing seafood dish.
Equipments
- Frying pan or skillet
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Plate (for serving)
- Tongs
- Serving spoon (for vegetables)
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (zest and wedges)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 1 cup snap peas
Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, dill, and thyme are key to achieving the authentic flavor profile of Herb-Rubbed Tilapia, so make sure to use fresh rather than dried versions for optimal taste. The combination of garlic powder and onion powder enhances the seasoning, but adjust salt and pepper based on your personal preference to avoid overpowering the fish. Using olive oil helps to create a golden sear on the tilapia fillets while keeping them moist and tender. Vibrant vegetables like broccoli, baby carrots, and snap peas add color and nutrition, balancing the dish. You can recreate the Herb-Rubbed Tilapia from Perkins copycat menu by carefully replicating these fresh herb and seasoning ratios along with the cooking method.
Instructions
- Pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine parsley, basil, dill, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
- Rub both sides of tilapia fillets with olive oil.
- Evenly coat both sides of tilapia fillets with the herb mixture.
- Heat frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
- Place tilapia fillets in the pan.
- Cook fillets 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove tilapia from pan and set aside on serving plate.
- In the same pan, add broccoli, baby carrots, and snap peas.
- Sauté vegetables until tender-crisp, about 3–5 minutes.
- Season vegetables with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange vegetables next to tilapia fillets on serving plate.
- Garnish dish with lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Herb-Rubbed Tilapia from Perkins copycat menu can be easily customized by substituting any fresh herbs with dried versions, using about one-third of the fresh quantity to maintain flavor balance. If tilapia fillets are unavailable, other mild white fish like cod or haddock work well in this recipe, providing similar texture and taste. When pan-searing, you can use avocado or canola oil instead of olive oil for a higher smoke point, which helps achieve that perfect golden crust. Should you prefer roasted vegetables over sauteed, roasting broccoli, baby carrots, and snap peas with a drizzle of olive oil at 400degF for 15-20 minutes offers a delicious alternative. You'll find that adjusting seasonings to your preference allows this meal to fit your personal taste and the ingredients you have on hand.
Tips
Ensure patting the tilapia fillets dry is thorough to help the herb rub adhere and create a crispy sear. Use medium heat when cooking the fish to prevent burning the herbs and to allow even cooking through the fillets. When sauteing vegetables, maintain a tender-crisp texture by stirring frequently and avoiding overcooking, which preserves their vibrant color and nutrients. Remember to season your vegetables after cooking to enhance their natural flavors without overwhelming your palate.
Nutritions
Herb-Rubbed Tilapia from Perkins offers a lean source of protein with each 4-ounce fillet providing approximately 110 calories and 22 grams of protein, supporting muscle repair and growth. The fresh herb rub delivers antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, enhancing overall health benefits. The vibrant side vegetables--broccoli, baby carrots, and snap peas--add dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, promoting digestive health and immune function. Your meal balances essential nutrients with low saturated fat and calories, making it suitable for weight management and heart health.
Storage
Store leftover herb-rubbed tilapia and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness. Your seafood dish will stay safe to eat for up to 3 days when properly chilled. For best taste, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, avoiding the microwave to preserve texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment by substituting tilapia with cod or mahi-mahi for a firmer texture and slightly different flavor profile. Swap fresh herbs for dried Italian seasoning if fresh options are unavailable, adjusting quantities to about one-third of the fresh amount. Instead of pan-searing, try baking the herb-rubbed tilapia at 400degF for 12-15 minutes for a hands-off cooking method that retains moisture. For extra zest, add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the pan when sauteing vegetables to enhance brightness.
Allergies
Herb-Rubbed Tilapia contains fish, a common allergen that can cause reactions ranging from mild to severe in sensitive individuals. This dish also includes garlic and onion powders, which may trigger allergies or intolerances in some people. If you have known allergies to seafood or allium vegetables, inform your server to ensure your meal is safe.
Why this recipe?
Herb-Rubbed Tilapia from Perkins restaurant is loved for its perfectly seasoned, flaky fish that delivers a fresh, savory experience with every bite. The combination of herbs enhances the natural flavor of tilapia, making the dish both healthy and satisfying. You'll find it worth trying the copycat recipe because it allows you to recreate this popular menu item at home, saving money while enjoying the same delicious taste. Mastering this dish brings a restaurant-quality meal to your kitchen that impresses family and friends alike.