Looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that the whole family will love, even those who aren’t big fans of fish? Look no further than this Easy Lemon Butter Fish recipe. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious dish that features firm white fish fillets coated with a mouthwatering blend of lemon and buttery goodness. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is a perfect go-to option for busy evenings when you want something scrumptious and satisfying on the table.
- Ingredients:
- 4 firm white fish fillets, about 6 inches long, 1-inch thickness throughout (cod, halibut, or mahi mahi are great )
- 3 TB melted butter
- Juice and zest from 1 medium lemon
- ½ tsp kosher salt, plus extra to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 3 TB olive oil
- freshly chopped basil or parsley leaves, for garnish and flavor
- extra lemon slices for serving
- Instructions
- Use paper towels to thoroughly pat-dry excess moisture from fish fillets. This step is crucial for fish to brown nicely in pan – otherwise, it will steam instead of brown. Set aside.
- In a bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice and zest, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Stir to combine well. Taste and add a bit more kosher salt, if desired.
- In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Evenly press spice mixture onto all sides of fish fillets.
- In a large, heavy pan over medium high heat, heat up the olive oil until hot. Once your oil is sizzling, Cook 2 fish fillets at a time to avoid overcrowding (allows for even browning). Cook each side just until fish becomes opaque, feels somewhat firm in the center, and is browned, about 2-3 minutes per side; lightly drizzle some of the lemon butter sauce as you cook, reserving the rest for serving. Take care not to over-cook, as that will result in a tougher texture. Season with extra kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve fish with with remaining lemon butter sauce, basil or parsley, and lemon wedges.
With its zesty lemon and rich buttery flavor, this Easy Lemon Butter Fish is sure to become a favorite in your household. The firm white fish fillets, perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices, take on a delightful caramelized crust, while staying tender and flaky on the inside. Whether you choose cod, halibut, or mahi mahi, each bite is a burst of deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides, but for a wholesome and gluten-free meal, consider serving it with Perfect Instant Pot Brown Rice or Best Easy Roasted Vegetables. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors of the garnished basil or parsley and lemon wedges not only add an inviting touch to the presentation but also enhance the taste.
So, when you’re short on time but craving a delightful seafood dish, turn to this Easy Lemon Butter Fish recipe. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a healthy and delectable dinner any night of the week. Bon appétit!
Images/Source: ChewOutLoud
