Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet: A Light and Flavorful Dinner Recipe

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet: A Light and Flavorful Dinner Recipe

When you’re craving a light yet satisfying meal, this Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe is the perfect answer. With tender white fish fillets seasoned to perfection and smothered in a luscious lemon butter sauce, this dish strikes a perfect balance between freshness and richness.

Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or as an elegant dish to impress guests. The zingy lemon pairs beautifully with the savory, garlicky butter sauce, creating a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Serve it with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The lemon butter sauce adds a tangy richness that elevates the mild fish.
• Healthy and Versatile: Packed with protein and adaptable to your favorite side dishes.
• Elegant Yet Simple: Easy enough for a weeknight but fancy enough for a dinner party.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fish:

• 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Lemon slices
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

1. Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure even browning.
2. Rub each fillet with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the fish fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and flaky. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce generously over the top.
2. Garnish with lemon slices and additional parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Chef’s Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Fish cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid a dry texture. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
• Use Fresh Lemons: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor for this dish.
• Customizable Protein: This recipe works beautifully with shrimp, salmon, or even chicken breasts.

Serving Suggestions

• With Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or wild rice to soak up the lemon butter sauce.
• With Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a simple side salad.
• With Pasta: Toss the sauce with linguine or angel hair pasta for a light seafood pasta dish.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Lemon Butter Fish: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat.
• Herb Infusion: Swap parsley for dill or thyme for a different aromatic flavor.
• Creamy Version: Add ¼ cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.