Lemony Steamed Fish

Name: Lemony Steamed Fish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut); 2 lemons, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried oregano (or thyme); 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth

Isabella

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Delicately Lemony Steamed Fish infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a light yet flavorful dish. This healthy and easy-to-make recipe keeps the fish moist and tender while enhancing its natural taste. It’s a perfect option for a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

Light and Healthy – Steaming keeps the fish moist without extra fat or calories.

Quick and Easy – Ready in under 25 minutes with minimal effort.

Bursting with Flavor – The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs enhances the natural taste of the fish.

Versatile – Works with different types of white fish and pairs well with a variety of sides.

No-Fuss Cooking – Requires only a steamer and a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut)

2 lemons, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp dried oregano (or thyme)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth

Directions

In a large steaming pot, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a gentle simmer.

Season the fish fillets with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.

Arrange lemon slices in the steamer basket, then place the fish fillets on top.

Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle minced garlic evenly.

Cover and steam for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Remove from the steamer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra lemon slices.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories per serving: 160 kcal

Variations

Spicy Twist – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Citrus Blend – Use a mix of lemon and orange slices for a sweeter citrus flavor.

Asian-Inspired – Add fresh ginger and a splash of soy sauce to the broth.

Garlic Butter – Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer taste.

Herb Boost – Try basil or dill instead of oregano for a different herb profile.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Freezing: Not recommended as steaming keeps the fish delicate and may become mushy when thawed.

Reheating: Warm gently in a steamer for a few minutes or microwave in short intervals, covered, to retain moisture.

FAQs

How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If in doubt, use a food thermometer—145°F (63°C) is the safe internal temperature for fish.

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, but I recommend thawing them first to ensure even cooking and better texture.

What can I serve with this dish?

I like pairing it with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Absolutely! Any mild white fish like snapper, bass, or haddock works well.

Do I need a special steamer for this recipe?

No, a simple steaming basket or a colander over a pot of simmering broth works fine.

Conclusion

This lemony steamed fish is a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal that comes together in no time. The fresh citrus, herbs, and garlic create a perfect balance of lightness and depth, making it a go-to dish for a quick weeknight dinner. Try it with different variations and side dishes to keep things exciting.