Description
This Fantastic Lemon Butter Fillet recipe features tender white fish fillets perfectly pan-seared and topped with a zesty lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and fresh parsley. It’s a quick and flavorful dish ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasoning
- 4 white fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or halibut, about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Fillets: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor and help form a nice crust during cooking.
- Pan-Sear the Fish: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the fish fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden brown color and are cooked through. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Lemon Flavor: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest into the melted butter and garlic mixture, allowing the flavors to combine well.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the fish fillets to the skillet. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over each fillet, and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to meld the flavors and ensure everything is hot.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the fillets with freshly chopped parsley and garnish with lemon slices before serving. Enjoy with your choice of sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, white rice, or roasted potatoes to complete the meal.
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based vegan butter.
