Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets
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Why Make This Recipe
Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings fresh flavors to your dining table. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special dish to impress guests. The tangy lemon and rich butter sauce elevate the mild flavor of the fish, making it a delightful option for both fish lovers and first-timers.
How to Make Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets
Ingredients:
- 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, or your favorite)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp butter
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Fish: Pat fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Fish: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: Lower heat to medium. Using the same skillet, melt butter with olive oil. Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Place fish on a serving platter, spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over each fillet, and garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices.
How to Serve Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets
Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets are best served hot. You can pair them with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of rice to complete your meal. Don’t forget to drizzle extra lemon butter sauce over your sides for added flavor!
How to Store Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets
If you have leftovers, store the fish fillets in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out.
Tips to Make Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets
- Choose thick fish fillets for even cooking.
- Make sure to pat the fish dry; this helps them get a nice golden crust.
- Adjust the lemon juice and zest to your taste. If you love lemon, feel free to add more!
Variation
You can use this recipe with different types of fish. Salmon or trout is also delicious with lemon butter sauce. For a twist, add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. What can I replace butter with?
If you want a lighter option, you can use olive oil instead of butter.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh. If made ahead, reheat the fish gently to maintain its moisture.
Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets
Ingredients
Method
- Pat fillets dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky.
- Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium.
- Using the same skillet, melt butter with olive oil.
- Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, zest, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Place fish on a serving platter.
- Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over each fillet.
- Garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices.
