Ingredients:

  • 4 large tilapia fillets
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 fresh lemon
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely minced

Instructions:

  1. Pat each tilapia fillet extremely dry on both sides using paper towels to ensure a crispy sear.
  2. In a shallow dredging dish, whisk together the flour, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Press each side of the fish into the flour mixture, then shake off every bit of excess until only a translucent dusting remains.
  4. Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and barely wisps of smoke appear.
  5. Place fillets in the pan and sear for approximately 3 minutes per side. Use a fish spatula to flip once the crust is mahogany-colored and releases easily from the pan.
  6. Drop 2 tbsp unsalted butter into the pan and let it melt. Spoon the foaming butter over the fish for 2 minutes.
  7. Remove from heat when the internal temperature is just shy of 145°F or when the fish flakes easily with a fork. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with minced parsley.