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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet served with a lemon wedge
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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

A delightful dish featuring tender white fish fillets bathed in a luscious lemon butter sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Keyword: butter fish, easy fish fillet, lemon fish recipe
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 300kcal

Ingredients

For the fish

  • 4 pieces white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock) These fillets are mild in flavor and flaky in texture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil To achieve a beautiful sear on the fish.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Complements the fish perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Provides warmth and a hint of sweetness.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste Essential for balancing flavors.

For the sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter Adds richness and a velvety texture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Combines with butter for balanced flavor.
  • 2 pieces lemons (juiced and zested) Adds brightness to the dish.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Kicks up the flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnish and added flavor.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste Season the sauce appropriately.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Start by patting the fish dry with a paper towel. Rub both sides of the fish fillets with olive oil, then sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Let the seasoned fillets sit for about 10 minutes.

Cooking the Fish

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned fillets in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and flaky. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Making the Sauce

  • Reduce heat to medium, add butter and olive oil to the skillet. When butter melts, stir in minced garlic, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Season the sauce with salt and pepper and simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Serving

  • Place the fish fillets on a plate and pour the zesty lemon butter sauce over them. Garnish with additional parsley or lemon slices if desired.

Notes

Always start with dry fish for crispy skin. Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat. Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.