This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a perfect balance of bright citrusy flavors, rich buttery goodness, and perfectly seasoned flaky fish. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and butter creates a luscious sauce that enhances the delicate taste of the fish. Serve it with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients
To create this flavorful dish, you will need:
For the Fish:
The foundation of this recipe is 4 fillets of white fish such as cod, tilapia, or haddock—all of which have a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon butter sauce. To enhance the fish, season it with 1 teaspoon of paprika, which adds a subtle smokiness, along with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of onion powder for depth of flavor. Coat each fillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help achieve a crispy, golden crust, and season with salt and black pepper, to taste to bring out the natural flavors of the fish.
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
The magic of this dish lies in the rich and zesty sauce. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil for a velvety texture. Add the juice and zest of 2 lemons to infuse a fresh, citrusy brightness. The sauce is further enhanced with 4 cloves of garlic, minced, which gives it an aromatic depth. A sprinkle of 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped, provides a touch of herbaceous freshness. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, ensuring the flavors are well balanced.
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Fish:
Start by patting the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture—this helps create a better sear. Lightly coat both sides with olive oil and evenly sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for a well-seasoned crust.
2️⃣ Cook the Fish:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned fish fillets in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fillets develop a golden-brown crust and flake easily with a fork. Once cooked, remove the fish from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3️⃣ Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and in the same skillet, melt the butter and olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and chopped parsley, then season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
4️⃣ Assemble and Serve:
Place the cooked fish fillets on a serving platter and drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over them. Garnish with extra parsley and fresh lemon slices for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Serving Suggestions & Tips
🌿 Side Pairings: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice pilaf for a balanced meal.
🔥 For Extra Crispiness: If you prefer a crispier crust, lightly coat the fish fillets in a thin layer of flour or panko breadcrumbs before cooking.
🌶 Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a hint of heat.
🍷 Wine Pairing: Serve this dish with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the citrusy notes.
Final Thoughts
This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is the perfect combination of flavor, simplicity, and elegance. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for a dinner party. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a fresh, light meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Would you serve this with rice, pasta, or roasted veggies? Let me know your favorite way to enjoy it! 🍽️✨
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