This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a light, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings out the natural flavors of fresh fish. The buttery, garlicky sauce combined with the citrusy tang of lemon creates a perfect balance that pairs wonderfully with vegetables or a side of rice.
Ingredients
For the Fish
- 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Fish
- Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drizzle them with olive oil and season generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure both sides are well-coated.
- Cook the Fish: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and carefully place the fillets in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Preparing the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Add Lemon and Seasoning: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Assembling the Dish
- Drizzle the Sauce: Return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over each fillet to coat them evenly. Allow them to warm in the sauce for about a minute.
- Serve: Transfer the fish fillets to a serving platter. Garnish with extra lemon slices and freshly chopped parsley for an elegant presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts
- A side of fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal
- A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast
Cooking Tips
- If using frozen fish, make sure to thaw and pat it completely dry before cooking to achieve a perfect sear.
- For an extra crisp texture, lightly coat the fish with flour before pan-searing.
- Adjust the lemon and garlic levels according to personal preference for a bolder flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 22g
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful Lemon Butter Fish Fillet, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special meal with loved ones.