Introduction
If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and delicious seafood dish, this Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe is perfect. It combines the flaky tenderness of white fish with a buttery, garlicky lemon sauce, making it an irresistible meal for seafood lovers.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a healthy meal prep option, this recipe is a go-to choice. The best part? It’s easy to make in under 30 minutes, requires simple pantry ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds mild spice and color to the fish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the fish’s natural flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle savory depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps in searing the fish and locking in moisture.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter – The base of the rich and velvety sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Balances the butter and prevents burning.
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons – Provides the perfect citrusy tang.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Enhances the sauce’s flavor.
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a better sear.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat both sides of each fillet evenly with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning mixture over them.
Step 2: Cook the Fish
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil, allowing it to heat up for about 30 seconds.
- Place the fish fillets into the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side.
- You’ll know the fish is ready when it turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once done, remove the fish from the pan and set aside on a warm plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and, using the same skillet, melt butter along with olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it turns fragrant.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley.
- Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Arrange the cooked fish fillets on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce generously over each fillet.
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon slices for a fresh, vibrant look.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve immediately while the fish is warm and the sauce is silky.
- Pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Variations
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
Garlic Lover’s Version
Double the amount of garlic for a more intense flavor.
Creamy Sauce
Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Parmesan Crusted
Before cooking, coat the fish in a light layer of grated Parmesan for extra crispiness.
Herb-Infused
Add fresh thyme or basil to the sauce for an aromatic touch.
Cooking Notes
- Avoid Overcooking: Fish cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent dryness.
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest give the best flavor.
- Choose the Right Pan: A non-stick or stainless steel pan works best for a perfect sear.
- Control the Heat: Medium-high heat helps get a nice crust without burning the fish.
Serving Suggestions
This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic Butter Rice – Absorbs the lemon butter sauce perfectly.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Try asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes complement the zesty flavors.
- Crusty Bread – Ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce!
- Side Salad – A fresh Caesar or Mediterranean salad pairs well.
Tips for the Best Results
✔ Use fresh, high-quality fish for the best taste and texture.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
✔ Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as necessary.
✔ For extra crispiness, lightly coat the fish in flour or cornstarch before pan-searing.
✔ Experiment with different citrus flavors like lime or orange for a unique twist.
Prep & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sodium: 280mg
(Nutritional values may vary based on the type of fish and portion sizes.)
FAQs
Can I bake the fish instead of pan-searing it?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes or until it flakes easily.
What type of fish works best for this recipe?
Cod, haddock, tilapia, snapper, or halibut work great. Choose mild, flaky white fish.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent drying out.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and refrigerate it, then reheat over low heat before serving.
Conclusion
This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a simple yet elegant dish that’s packed with flavor. The buttery garlic-lemon sauce pairs beautifully with the tender fish, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in no time. Try it today, and let us know how it turns out! 😊🐟🍋
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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and delicious seafood dish, this Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe is perfect. It combines the flaky tenderness of white fish with a buttery, garlicky lemon sauce, making it an irresistible meal for seafood lovers.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a healthy meal prep option, this recipe is a go-to choice. The best part? It’s easy to make in under 30 minutes, requires simple pantry ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds mild spice and color to the fish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the fish’s natural flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle savory depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps in searing the fish and locking in moisture.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter – The base of the rich and velvety sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Balances the butter and prevents burning.
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons – Provides the perfect citrusy tang.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Enhances the sauce’s flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a better sear.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat both sides of each fillet evenly with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning mixture over them.
Step 2: Cook the Fish
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil, allowing it to heat up for about 30 seconds.
- Place the fish fillets into the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side.
- You’ll know the fish is ready when it turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once done, remove the fish from the pan and set aside on a warm plate.
Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and, using the same skillet, melt butter along with olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it turns fragrant.
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley.
- Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Arrange the cooked fish fillets on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce generously over each fillet.
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon slices for a fresh, vibrant look.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve immediately while the fish is warm and the sauce is silky.
- Pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Avoid Overcooking: Fish cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent dryness.
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest give the best flavor.
- Choose the Right Pan: A non-stick or stainless steel pan works best for a perfect sear.
- Control the Heat: Medium-high heat helps get a nice crust without burning the fish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Sodium: 280mg
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 30g