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Sautéing spinach with garlic is a simple yet flavorful process that elevates the nutritional value of the dish while adding a delightful taste. Begin by washing the fresh spinach thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt. After rinsing, pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.

Garlic Butter Tilapia with Spinach

Discover the deliciousness of Garlic Butter Tilapia with Spinach, a perfect dish for both busy weeknights and special occasions. This recipe combines tender tilapia fillets with vibrant spinach, all beautifully enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. With its quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Packed with protein and essential nutrients, this dish is a winning choice for health-conscious food lovers. Treat yourself to this delightful culinary experience that marries simplicity and flavor.
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Ingredients
  

4 tilapia fillets (fresh or frozen)

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

8 cups fresh spinach (or more, to taste)

1 teaspoon lemon zest

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped)

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preparation: If using frozen tilapia, thaw the fillets in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and run under cold water for 30 minutes.

    Cooking the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and stir until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Once wilted, remove the spinach from the skillet and set aside.

      Cooking the Tilapia: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Season both sides of the tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and thyme. Carefully place the fillets in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip them over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

        Combine: Once the tilapia is finished, return the sautéed spinach to the skillet and gently toss it with the fillets for about a minute to combine the flavors, ensuring everything is heated through.

          Serve: Carefully plate the tilapia along with the garlicky spinach. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings