Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Why This Recipe Works

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a delightful dish that brings together fresh fish and a zesty butter sauce. The combination of flavors is simple yet satisfying. The fish is cooked to a golden brown, providing a nice texture while the lemon butter sauce adds richness and brightness. This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that will impress family and friends. It’s packed with protein, and the tangy lemon flavor makes it light and refreshing. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair well with various sides, from veggies to rice.

How to Make Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for drizzling on fish fillets)
  • 4 fillets White fish (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika (adds color and flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (enhances the flavor of the fish)
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder (adds depth to the seasoning)
  • 4 tablespoons Butter (for the sauce, adds richness)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for the sauce, complements the butter)
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced (adds aromatic flavor to the sauce)
  • 2 lemons (juice and zest for zesty flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and flavor)
  • to taste Salt (for seasoning the fish and sauce)
  • to taste Pepper (for seasoning the fish and sauce)

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Paper towels
  • Spoon for mixing
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and drizzle with olive oil. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned fish fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and flaky.
  3. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and olive oil. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Stir in lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the cooked fish fillets and garnish with chopped parsley.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your Lemon Butter Fish Fillet!

How to Serve Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is best served hot. Pair it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. A slice of lemon on the side can add an extra burst of flavor if desired.

How to Store Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to prevent the fish from becoming dry.

Tips & Tricks

  • Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the fish to get a nice sear.
  • Fresh fish works best for this recipe, but frozen can be used; just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
  • Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.

Variations & Substitutions

  • You can use any white fish you prefer or even salmon for a richer flavor.
  • If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Use fresh herbs like dill or cilantro instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: Can I make this recipe without butter?
A: While butter adds richness, you can substitute it with olive oil for a lighter version.

Q: What can I serve with Lemon Butter Fish Fillet?
A: This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad.

Print

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

A delightful dish featuring fresh fish and a zesty lemon butter sauce. Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

  • Author: alexa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-searing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for drizzling on fish fillets)
  • 4 fillets White fish (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 4 tablespoons Butter
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for the sauce)
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 lemons (juice and zest)
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Instructions

  1. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and drizzle with olive oil. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned fish fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and flaky.
  3. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and olive oil. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Stir in lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the cooked fish fillets and garnish with chopped parsley.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your Lemon Butter Fish Fillet!

Notes

Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the fish for a nice sear. Fresh fish works best, but frozen can be used if fully thawed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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