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Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe


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4.6 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent lemon butter fish fillet whisks Mediterranean flavors into a quick, elegant dinner. Delicate ocean-fresh fish mingles with zesty citrus and rich butter, promising restaurant-quality satisfaction right from your kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 4 fish fillets (6 ounces/170 grams each) (cod, tilapia, halibut, or snapper)

Seasonings:

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Gently blot fish fillets with absorbent paper, removing excess moisture to ensure optimal seasoning adherence.
  2. Sprinkle both sides of the fillets with a harmonious blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper, creating a flavorful and aromatic coating.
  3. Massage the seasonings into the fish gently, allowing the spices to penetrate the delicate flesh and enhance its natural taste profile.
  4. Let the seasoned fillets rest for a few minutes, enabling the flavors to meld and prepare the fish for cooking.
  5. Select a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan that will provide even heat distribution for perfect fish preparation.
  6. Warm the pan over medium-high heat, adding a touch of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking and create a golden, crisp exterior.
  7. Carefully place the seasoned fillets into the heated pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper searing.
  8. Cook the fish for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, watching for a golden-brown crust and checking for opaque, flaky texture throughout.
  9. Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a serving plate, allowing them to rest momentarily before garnishing with fresh lemon wedges or herbs.

Notes

  • Always use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture from fish, ensuring a crispy exterior when cooking.
  • Experiment with different seasoning blends like Cajun, herbs de Provence, or Mediterranean spice mixes to add variety and personal flair.
  • Choose fresh, high-quality white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia for the best texture and flavor in this delicate recipe.
  • For a gluten-free option, replace regular flour with almond flour or cornstarch when creating a light coating on the fish fillets.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 27 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg