Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets

Why Make This Recipe

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets are a delightful dish that brings flavor and a burst of freshness to your dinner table. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also showcases the zingy taste of lemon combined with rich butter, making the fish fillets juicy and delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

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

Directions:

Prepare the Fish: Pat fish 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

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can serve it as a light lunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or as part of a larger meal spread when entertaining. To enhance the dining experience, offer extra lemon wedges on the side for those who love that extra zing!

How to Store Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets

If you have leftovers, let the fish cool completely before storing. Place the fillets in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets

Make sure to dry the fish well before seasoning to ensure a nice sear.
Adjust the lemon juice to suit your taste; more lemon for a zesty kick or less for a milder flavor.
For added flavor, consider marinating the fillets with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking.

Variation

You can easily switch up the herbs in the sauce. Try using dill or thyme instead of parsley for a different flavor profile. Additionally, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a hint of spice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, frozen fish fillets work well! Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.

What can I use instead of butter?
If you want a lighter option, you can use a good quality olive oil or vegan butter if you are avoiding dairy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The fish can be cooked in advance and stored, making it a great option for meal prep. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.