Blackened Tilapia

Ingredients

• 1½ lb tilapia fillets
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¾ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 lemon wedges (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Steps

1. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Generously coat both sides of each tilapia fillet with the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until very hot but not smoking.
4. Carefully place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and has a dark, crusty exterior.
5. Remove the tilapia from the skillet and serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.