Baked Tilapia with Barley and Roasted Zucchini

Ingredients

• Tilapia fillet 8 oz
• Barley 1.5 cups cooked
• Zucchini 2 cups roasted
• Olive oil 1.5 tbsp
• Garlic powder 1 tsp

Method

1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat while you prepare the ingredients. This temperature is ideal for baking the tilapia and roasting the zucchini evenly.
   Tip: Preheating the oven ensures even cooking right from the start.
2. Prepare the zucchini. Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Cut them into 1/2-inch thick slices or half-moons for even roasting. Place the zucchini pieces on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with half of the garlic powder, and toss to coat evenly.
   Tip: Cut zucchini uniformly so they cook at the same rate.
3. Roast the zucchini. Spread the zucchini in a single layer on the baking sheet. Place in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and lightly browned.
   Tip: Turning the zucchini halfway helps them brown evenly.
4. Prepare the tilapia. While the zucchini roasts, pat the tilapia fillet dry with paper towels. Place it on a separate baking dish or sheet. Drizzle the remaining 0.5 tablespoon of olive oil over the fillet and sprinkle the remaining garlic powder evenly on top. Optionally, season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
   Tip: Drying the fish helps the oil and seasoning stick better.
5. Bake the tilapia. Once the zucchini has been roasting for about 10 minutes, put the tilapia in the oven as well. Bake the fish for about 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
   Tip: Check for doneness by gently pressing the thickest part of the fillet with a fork.
6. Heat the cooked barley. If your barley is pre-cooked and cooled, warm it gently in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Heat until warm throughout, about 2-3 minutes.
   Tip: Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate to keep moisture in.
7. Plate and serve. Arrange the warm barley on a plate, place the baked tilapia fillet on top or beside it, and add the roasted zucchini on the side. Enjoy your balanced, nutritious meal!
   Tip: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a lemon wedge for extra flavor if desired.

Pro tips

• Use parchment paper on baking sheets for easier cleanup.
• If you prefer, substitute garlic powder with fresh minced garlic for a stronger flavor.