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Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

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Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a quick and elegant dish featuring tender, flaky white fish pan-seared and drizzled with a rich lemon-garlic butter sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s fresh, flavorful, and versatile—perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining.

  • Author: Tina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 fillets
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Fried
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

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

2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling on fish)

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

Juice and zest of 2 lemons

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned fish fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and flaky. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and olive oil. Once melted, stir in garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add lemon juice and zest, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the fish fillets, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Add capers for a briny twist.
  • Swap parsley for dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
  • Lighten it by reducing butter and adding a splash of white wine.
  • Salmon or trout can be substituted for a richer option.
  • Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet with lemon juice or broth.
  • Baking method: cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cheftinaskitchen.com/lemon-butter-fish-fillet/