Lime Cilantro Baked Tilapia

An easy lime and cilantro baked fish recipe for a fresh, healthy dinner

A simple, healthy weeknight dinner with bright, zesty flavor

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner idea that doesn’t require a lot of fuss, this baked tilapia is it. It’s light, flavorful, and super easy to make—perfect for a weeknight meal that feels a little special without any complicated steps. The citrusy lime, earthy cumin and coriander, and fresh cilantro come together to make a simple dish that tastes like something you’d order at a nice little coastal café (but way cheaper and ready in 30 minutes).

Tilapia is a great option if you’re new to cooking fish or just prefer a milder flavor. It’s lean, high in protein, and cooks quickly. Since it’s such a low-fat fish, I like to drizzle a little olive oil over the top to keep it tender and juicy in the oven.

This recipe is easy to customize—serve it with a simple side salad, some roasted veggies, or fluffy couscous. It’s also delicious over rice or tucked into a taco with a little avocado.

Why I Love This Recipe

• It’s quick and perfect for busy weeknights

• Tilapia is a mild, lean protein source

• Lime + cilantro = fresh, vibrant flavor

• Family-friendly and great for meal prep

Nutritional Highlights

This dish is rich in:

• • Protein – Helps support lean muscle, keeps you full, and fuels a healthy metabolism

  • Vitamin B12 – Important for energy, red blood cell production, and nervous system support

  • Selenium – A powerful antioxidant that supports immune health and thyroid function

  • Niacin (Vitamin B3) – Helps convert food into energy and supports skin and digestion

  • Phosphorus – Essential for strong bones and healthy metabolism

  • Potassium – Supports heart health, muscle function, and blood pressure balance

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  • Antioxidants – From fresh lime and cilantro

  • Anti-inflammatory spices – Cumin and coriander add both flavor and health benefits

Recipe:

Lime Cilantro Baked Tilapia

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25–35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1–2 lbs tilapia fillets (or any white fish like cod or haddock)

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• ½ tsp coarse sea salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼–½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

• Juice of ½ large lime (about 2–3 Tbsp)

• Optional: Lime zest for extra flavor

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

2. Lay the fish fillets flat on the sheet and pat them dry with paper towels.

3. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over both sides of the fish.

4. Season with cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.

5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and squeeze lime juice over everything.

6. Bake for 25–35 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Serving Suggestions

• With steamed broccoli or green beans

• On top of rice or couscous

• As fish tacos with slaw and avocado

• Alongside a big side salad for a lighter option

Let me know if you try it—I’d love to hear how you served it! And if you’re looking for more easy, healthy dinner ideas, check out some of my other weeknight recipes here.