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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a vibrant seafood dish combining tender firm white fish with a bright lemon punch and rich butter sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe balances tangy citrus with creamy indulgence for a healthy, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 fresh firm white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut), about 6 ounces each
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons juice)

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish: Pat your fresh fish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure better browning and prevent steaming. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Gently sauté minced garlic until fragrant and slightly golden, infusing the butter with aromatic flavor without burning the garlic.
  3. Cook the Fish: Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, until the edges turn opaque and the center is just cooked through. Spoon some browned butter over the fillets while cooking to keep them moist and flavorful.
  4. Add Lemon Zest and Juice: Once the fish is almost done, add freshly grated lemon zest and squeeze lemon juice directly into the pan. Allow the sauce to bubble gently, coating the fillets in the zesty butter and creating that signature tangy finish.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the cooked fillets to brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Choose fresh fish for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook the fish to keep it tender and moist.
  • Sauté garlic slowly in butter on medium-low heat to avoid burning.
  • Use fresh lemon juice and zest for optimal brightness.
  • Let the fillets rest for a minute after cooking to soak up the sauce fully.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon butter fish, fish fillet recipe, quick seafood dinner, healthy fish recipe, gluten free fish dish