This is one of the cleanest and healthiest meals in my arsenal, and it happens to have been named by my ex-husband (I’m Buster, FYI) since this is one of his go-to requests for dinner. Featuring bright and clean cilantro, zingy lime, and feisty jalapeño, this fish dish is perfect for the summer months.
Preheat the oven to 400º F. Rinse the tilapia fillets and pat dry, and place them in a shallow baking dish that is large enough to hold the fillets without overlapping. Drizzle with 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil on both sides, and then season both sides with salt and pepper.
Sprinkle a pinch of the lime zest on top of each fillet and place in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through, but not dried out.
Meanwhile, prepare the vinaigrette: Pour the rice vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, lime juice, chopped jalapeño, cilantro (reserve a couple of pinches for garnish), and the rest of the lime zest into a blender or food processor. Slowly increase the speed until the vinaigrette is completely smooth. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. If you would like it spicier, add the other half of the jalapeño, seeds removed of course.
Once cooked, remove the tilapia from the oven. Place a cup of cooked rice (if using) into the bottom of a platter, and place the tilapia fillets on top. Douse with green vinaigrette! (I drown mine).
Sprinkle with half of the sunflower seeds and a pinch of chopped cilantro. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts
Buster's Famous Green Fish
Amount Per Serving (1 fillet)
Calories 349Calories from Fat 243
% Daily Value*
Fat 27g42%
Saturated Fat 4g25%
Cholesterol 43mg14%
Sodium 106mg5%
Potassium 437mg12%
Carbohydrates 8g3%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 20g40%
Vitamin A 171IU3%
Vitamin C 13mg16%
Calcium 31mg3%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.