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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe


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4.7 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Lemon Butter Fish Fillet brings Mediterranean coastal flavors to your dinner table with elegant simplicity. Delicate fish meets bright citrus and rich butter, creating a quick weeknight meal that transports diners to seaside restaurant terraces.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) butter
  • 2 lemons (juice and zest)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the fish fillets by thoroughly patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp exterior when cooking.
  2. Massage the fillets with olive oil, then generously coat with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a robust flavor profile.
  3. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat for approximately 2-3 minutes to create an ideal searing environment.
  4. Carefully place the seasoned fillets into the hot skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms and the fish becomes delicately flaky.
  5. Transfer the cooked fish to a separate plate, keeping it warm while preparing the sauce.
  6. Reduce the skillet’s heat to medium and introduce butter and olive oil, allowing them to meld together seamlessly.
  7. Add minced garlic to the melted butter mixture, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until the aroma becomes intensely fragrant.
  8. Incorporate fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley into the sauce, creating a vibrant and zesty flavor combination.
  9. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.
  10. Simmer the sauce gently for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to harmonize and slightly reduce.
  11. Arrange the fish fillets on a serving platter, then generously drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over the top.
  12. Enhance the presentation by garnishing with extra fresh parsley and delicate lemon slices for a bright, appetizing finish.

Notes

  • Patting fish dry ensures a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
  • Use fresh, high-quality white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia for the best texture and taste.
  • Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness to prevent overcooking and maintain delicate fish tenderness.
  • For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour to create a light coating on the fish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 355 kcal
  • Sugar: 0.5 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 0.3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg