Name: Lemon Butter Fish Fillet: 4 Easy Steps to Deliciousness
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 fillets Fish Fillets (cod or tilapia) (Fresh or thawed works best.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can be swapped with any neutral oil.); to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning.); to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Consider smoked paprika for extra dimension.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can provide bolder taste.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Feel free to omit if you prefer milder seasoning.); 4 tablespoons Butter (Creates a rich sauce.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh lemons yield the best results.); 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (Infuses the dish with bright flavor.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Can be swapped with dill or chives.)

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Lemon Butter Fish Fillet has become my go-to weeknight dinner for its incredible flavor and simplicity. This quick and healthy recipe transforms your meal into a flavorful celebration, perfect for busy nights. With just a handful of ingredients, including fresh lemon juice and butter, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe is a weeknight hero for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s healthy, offering approximately 350 calories and 35 grams of protein per serving, making it a great choice for a low-calorie diet. Third, the bright, zesty flavors of lemon combined with rich butter create a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love. Additionally, the versatility of this recipe allows you to use various types of fish, such as cod or tilapia, which are both excellent choices. Finally, this dish pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed vegetables or rice, making it a complete meal.

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Gather these items:

4 fillets Fish Fillets (cod or tilapia) (Fresh or thawed works best.)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can be swapped with any neutral oil.)
to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning.)
to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning.)
1 teaspoon Paprika (Consider smoked paprika for extra dimension.)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can provide bolder taste.)
1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Feel free to omit if you prefer milder seasoning.)
4 tablespoons Butter (Creates a rich sauce.)
2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh lemons yield the best results.)
1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (Infuses the dish with bright flavor.)
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Can be swapped with dill or chives.)

How to Make Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Step-by-Step

Step 1: Begin by patting the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. Drizzle olive oil over each side, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden-brown and flaky.
Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and a splash of olive oil. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, then stir in lemon juice and zest.
Step 4: Arrange the cooked fish on a platter and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, particularly fresh lemon juice and parsley.
Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the fish to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Experiment with different herbs like dill or chives for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a light meal or with a side of roasted vegetables for something heartier. You can also pair it with rice or quinoa for a filling option. If you’re looking for a simple yet elegant presentation, arrange the fish fillets on a platter and garnish with lemon slices and parsley.

How to Store and Reheat Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent drying out. This allows you to enjoy this delicious dish again without losing any flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

What’s the secret to perfect Lemon Butter Fish Fillet?

The key to a perfect Lemon Butter Fish is ensuring the skillet is hot enough before cooking the fish and using fresh ingredients like lemon juice and herbs for maximum flavor.

Can I make Lemon Butter Fish Fillet ahead of time?

You can prepare the fish and sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the fillets fresh for optimal texture. Store the sauce separately so it can be reheated when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lemon Butter Fish Fillet?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the fish to steam instead of sear. Also, pay attention to cooking times to avoid overcooking.

Variations of Lemon Butter Fish Fillet You Can Try

For a twist on the classic, consider making Lemon Herb Butter Fish by adding fresh herbs like dill or thyme. Alternatively, try a Lemon Garlic Butter Fish by incorporating minced garlic into the butter sauce. You can also experiment with different fish types, such as salmon or halibut, to find your favorite combination!

For more delicious recipes, check out Healthy Honey Mustard Crusted Tilapia or Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken. If you’re interested in cooking techniques, you might find Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe helpful!