Lemon Butter Fish Fillet
Description
This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is light, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. Tender fish fillets are pan-seared until golden, then coated in a rich buttery lemon sauce with garlic and fresh herbs. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (tilapia, cod, haddock, or any white fish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the fish fillets dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the fish for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and flaky. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley. Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Return the fish to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fillets.
- Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- Garnish with lemon slices and extra parsley before serving.
Q&A
Q: What fish works best for this recipe?
A: Cod, tilapia, haddock, halibut, or any mild white fish work well.
Q: Can I bake the fish instead of pan-frying?
A: Yes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, then drizzle with the lemon butter sauce.
Q: How do I know when the fish is cooked?
A: The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).
Q: What sides pair well with this dish?
A: Steamed vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are excellent choices.
