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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

The Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a quick and delicious seafood dish featuring tender white fish fillets cooked to perfection and topped with a bright, tangy lemon butter sauce. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this dish offers a perfect balance of zesty citrus and rich buttery flavor, making it ideal for nutritious weeknight meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 fresh white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock), about 6 ounces each
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Lemon Butter Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (grated peel from 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels. Lightly season both sides of each fillet with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors while keeping it balanced for the lemon butter sauce.
  2. Sear the Fish: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned fish fillets into the pan. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until the fish is golden brown and cooked through, being careful not to overcook. Remove the fillets from the skillet and keep warm on a plate.
  3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté gently until fragrant but not browned, about 30 seconds. Add the unsalted butter and melt it completely. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest. Allow the sauce to simmer for about one minute to blend all flavors thoroughly.
  4. Combine and Garnish: Return the fish fillets to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them, coating evenly. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a fresh herbal note and vibrant color. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use fresh fish fillets for the best texture and flavor.
  • Remove fish from heat as soon as it flakes easily to avoid overcooking.
  • Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for optimal brightness and zing.
  • Sauté garlic gently to prevent bitterness and maintain a smooth sauce.
  • Warm serving plates beforehand to keep the fish hot longer.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon butter fish, quick seafood recipe, healthy fish fillets, lemon sauce fish, easy fish dinner, gluten free seafood