Transform your next cookout into a culinary masterpiece with this Lemon Grilled Whole Tilapia with Grilled Bell Pepper Salsa. Featuring tender, flaky whole tilapia infused with a zesty lemon-garlic marinade and char-grilled to perfection, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. The accompanying smoky grilled bell pepper salsa, made with vibrant red and yellow bell peppers, fresh cilantro, red onion, and a hint of heat from jalapeño, adds layers of fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors that elevate every bite. With its quick 20-minute prep time and an easy-to-follow grilling process, this dish is ideal for summer gatherings or a unique weeknight dinner. Serve this wholesome, restaurant-quality meal with a side of rice or salad for a light yet satisfying experience. Perfect for seafood lovers and grill enthusiasts alike, this recipe is bursting with flavor, texture, and the ultimate smoky charm. **Keywords**: grilled tilapia, lemon marinade, bell pepper salsa, healthy seafood recipe, grilled whole fish.
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F).
Rinse the whole tilapia thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Using a sharp knife, make 2–3 shallow diagonal cuts on both sides of each fish. Brush the oil mixture generously over the fish, ensuring it gets into the cuts and cavities.
Set the tilapia aside to marinate while preparing the bell pepper salsa.
Slice the red and yellow bell peppers in half, removing the seeds and stems. Brush them lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
Place the bell peppers directly on the preheated grill and cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the skins are charred and the peppers are softened.
Remove the peppers from the grill, let them cool slightly, and then peel off the charred skins. Chop the grilled peppers into small pieces.
In a medium bowl, combine the grilled bell peppers, chopped red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir well to create the salsa.
Place the marinated tilapia on the grill and cook for 8–10 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
Carefully remove the fish from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes.
Serve the grilled tilapia whole, topped with the grilled bell pepper salsa. Pair with your favorite side dish, such as rice or a salad, for a complete meal.
Serving size | (1028.4g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1108.8 |
Total Fat 66.0g | 0% |
Saturated Fat 11.8g | 0% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.3g | |
Cholesterol 171mg | 0% |
Sodium 4913.2mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate 50.2g | 0% |
Dietary Fiber 10.9g | 0% |
Total Sugars 15.6g | |
Protein 85.1g | 0% |
Vitamin D 372IU | 0% |
Calcium 123.0mg | 0% |
Iron 5.8mg | 0% |
Potassium 2462.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories