This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe transforms simple white fish into a restaurant-quality dish, bursting with bright, citrusy flavors and rich, buttery goodness. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special. The combination of tender, flaky fish and a vibrant lemon butter sauce is simply irresistible.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The lemon butter sauce is packed with zesty and savory flavors that complement the delicate fish.
- Healthy: White fish is a great source of lean protein, and the lemon butter sauce adds healthy fats and nutrients.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes.
- Impressive: Despite its simplicity, this dish looks and tastes elegant, making it perfect for company.
Ingredients:
For the Fish:
- 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock), about 6-8 ounces each
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear on the fish. Excess moisture will steam the fish instead of browning it.
Step 2: Season the Fish
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Brush both sides of each fish fillet with olive oil, ensuring even coverage. This helps the seasoning adhere and promotes browning.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the fish fillets, gently pressing it into the flesh.
Step 3: Cook the Fish
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet works wonders for this recipe, but any large skillet will do. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the fish to prevent sticking.
Carefully place the seasoned fish fillets in the hot skillet, leaving some space between each fillet. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the temperature and result in steamed fish instead of seared fish. If necessary, cook the fish in batches.
Cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and flaky. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. A good indicator that the fish is cooked through is when it flakes easily with a fork.
Gently flip the fish fillets using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the cooked fish fillets from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and olive oil to the same skillet. The residual heat from the fish will help melt the butter quickly.
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter. Keep the garlic moving in the skillet to ensure even cooking.
Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest to the skillet. Stir well to combine. The lemon juice will deglaze the skillet, lifting any browned bits from the bottom and adding extra flavor to the sauce.
Add the chopped fresh parsley to the skillet and stir to incorporate.
Season the lemon butter sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The sauce will thicken slightly as it simmers.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Arrange the cooked fish fillets on a serving platter.
Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce generously over each fillet, ensuring that each piece of fish is well-coated.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon slices for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet with a side of roasted asparagus or broccoli.
- Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a light and fluffy quinoa salad.
- Serve with a crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
- A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly.
- For a complete meal, serve with steamed rice and a side of sauteed spinach.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the fish fillets in the lemon juice and zest for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons.
- Don’t overcook the fish, as it will become dry and tough.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley, but use half the amount.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a touch of heat.
- For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 350 Protein: 35g Sodium: 250mg
Conclusion
The Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a weeknight winner. The combination of tender, flaky fish and a bright, citrusy sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal! This recipe is also very versatile. You can swap out the white fish for salmon or shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Q2: What if I don’t have lemon zest?
A: Lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor to the sauce, but if you don’t have it, you can still make the recipe without it. The lemon juice will still provide plenty of flavor. Alternatively, you could use a small amount of lime zest for a slightly different flavor profile.
Q3: Can I use a different type of fish?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with a variety of white fish, such as cod, tilapia, haddock, or even flounder. You can also use salmon or shrimp for a different flavor. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the thickness of the fish.
Q4: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the skillet. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then whisk it into the sauce while it’s simmering. Cook for a minute or two, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Q5: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: While this dish is best served immediately, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook the fish, simply reheat the sauce and proceed with the recipe. It is best to cook the fish fresh for optimal texture.
