Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Are you looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthy seafood dish? This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe is the perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal. With its delicate balance of citrusy zest, rich buttery goodness, and tender flaky fish, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, paprika, and lemon enhances the natural taste of the fish.
• Nutritious & Light: Packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a great addition to any balanced diet.
• Versatile & Customizable: Works well with various types of white fish and pairs beautifully with different side dishes.
• Perfect for All Seasons: Light enough for summer yet comforting for winter meals.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers for the next day.

Ingredients Needed

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 butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

Enhance the dish with these optional ingredients:

• Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Capers for a briny contrast.
• Cherry tomatoes for a hint of sweetness.
• Spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
• Grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of umami.
• A drizzle of honey to balance out the acidity of the lemon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Fish:

Season the Fish:

• Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.
• Rub both sides of the fillets with olive oil.
• Season evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Cook the Fish:

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and flaky.
• Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.

2. Preparing the Lemon Butter Sauce:

Make the Sauce:

• Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
• Add butter and olive oil to the pan.
• Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Lemon and Seasoning:

• Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.

3. Assemble and Serve:

• Place the cooked fish fillets on a serving platter.
• Drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over the fillets.
• Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices for a vibrant finish.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Best Side Dishes to Pair with Lemon Butter Fish

To create a complete and satisfying meal, pair your fish with one of these delicious sides:

• Twice Baked Potato Casserole – A creamy and cheesy side dish that complements the zesty fish perfectly.
• One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles – A hearty side that pairs well with the citrusy and buttery fish.
• Hearty and Comforting Cabbage Soup – A warm and nutritious soup to complete your meal.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor compared to bottled versions.
• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Fish cooks quickly; overcooking can make it dry and tough.
• Use a Non-Stick Pan: Prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
• Pair it Right: Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding thyme, oregano, or dill for an herbal twist.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked fish fillets for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.

2. What’s the best fish for this recipe?

Mild white fish like cod, tilapia, haddock, or halibut works best.

3. Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative like olive oil or vegan butter.

4. What sides go well with lemon butter fish?

Steamed vegetables, quinoa, rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad are excellent choices.

5. How do I prevent my fish from sticking to the pan?

Use a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet or a non-stick pan, and ensure the pan is hot before adding the fish.

Related Recipes

For more delicious meal ideas, check out these recipes:

• Twice Baked Potato Casserole
• One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles
• Hearty and Comforting Cabbage Soup

Final Thoughts

This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is an easy, nutritious, and delicious dish that will impress your family and guests. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a special seafood treat, this recipe is a go-to favorite.

Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to share your pictures on social media and tag us on Facebook. Enjoy your meal!

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