Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet a Flaky white fish fillets pan-seared to perfection and drizzled with a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce. This dish is packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe combines the light, delicate texture of white fish with a bright, buttery lemon sauce. The balance of garlic, paprika, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Fish:
4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer for 1 minute.
Return the fish to the pan, spooning the sauce over the fillets. Let them warm through for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with rice, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 290 kcal per serving
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream to the lemon butter sauce for a richer taste.
Herb Infusion: Swap parsley with fresh basil or dill for a different herb flavor.
Oven-Baked Option: Instead of pan-searing, bake the fish at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, then drizzle with the sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a little extra butter or olive oil to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing, as the texture of the fish may change after thawing.
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FAQs
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. If using a thermometer, it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
What sides pair well with this dish?
I love serving it with rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is best for a bright, zesty flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.
What’s the best type of fish for this recipe?
Any mild, flaky white fish works well, including cod, tilapia, haddock, or even halibut.
Conclusion
This zesty lemon butter fish fillet is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of pan-seared fish and a buttery, citrusy sauce makes every bite delicious. Whether served with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad, it’s a meal that’s easy to make and always satisfying.
📖 Recipe:
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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Flaky white fish fillets pan-seared to perfection and drizzled with a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce. This easy and flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish combines garlic, paprika, and a touch of heat with the bright freshness of lemon. Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients
For the Fish:
4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish:
- Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Fish:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter.
- Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 1 minute.
- Combine & Serve:
- Return the fish to the pan, spooning the sauce over the fillets. Let them warm through for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with rice, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.
Notes
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Oven-Baked Option: Instead of pan-searing, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, then drizzle with the sauce.
Best Fish to Use: Cod, tilapia, haddock, or halibut work well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 290 kcal per serving
