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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe


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4.6 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mediterranean-inspired Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet delivers an elegant seafood experience with bright, fresh flavors. Delicate fish meets tangy citrus and rich butter, creating a simple yet sophisticated dinner perfect for weeknight meals and special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 fillets white fish (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) butter
  • 2 lemons (juice and zest)
  • 4 cloves garlic

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Cooking Oils:

  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Meticulously blot fish fillets using paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, ensuring a crisp exterior. Gently massage olive oil across both surfaces, then generously dust with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for a robust flavor profile.
  2. Ignite a large skillet over medium-high heat until surface shimmers. Carefully lay seasoned fillets into the pan, allowing them to sear for approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Fish should develop a golden-brown crust and effortlessly flake when prodded with a fork. Transfer perfectly cooked fillets to a clean plate.
  3. Reduce skillet temperature to medium and introduce butter and olive oil, creating a luxurious base. Incorporate minced garlic, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until aromatic and slightly translucent. Pour in fresh lemon juice and zest, then sprinkle chopped parsley. Calibrate seasoning with salt and pepper, then allow sauce to gently simmer for 2-3 minutes, melding flavors harmoniously.
  4. Artfully arrange golden fish fillets on a pristine serving platter. Cascade warm, fragrant lemon butter sauce over the fillets, ensuring complete coverage. Embellish with additional verdant parsley and vibrant lemon slices, transforming the dish into a visually stunning culinary masterpiece.

Notes

  • Pat fish thoroughly to ensure a crispy exterior that locks in moisture and prevents soggy texture.
  • Choose fresh, high-quality white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia for the best flavor and delicate texture.
  • Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan to prevent fish from sticking and breaking apart during cooking.
  • Adjust cooking time based on fish thickness; thinner fillets cook faster, while thicker cuts might need slightly longer to reach perfect flakiness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 33 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg