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
