Enjoy a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. Here’s the expanded, step-by-step guide to making this delicious Lemon Butter Fish Fillet:
Ingredients:
For the Fish:
- 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- Pat Dry the Fillets: Use a paper towel to pat the fish fillets dry. This step ensures the seasonings stick to the surface and prevents excess moisture, which can interfere with proper browning.
- Season Generously: On both sides of each fillet, sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder evenly. These spices enhance the flavor and create a beautifully seasoned crust when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Fish
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers. This ensures the fish won’t stick to the pan.
- Sear the Fish: Place the seasoned fillets gently into the hot skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on one side. This helps create a golden, crispy layer.
- Flip Carefully: Using a spatula, carefully flip the fish and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the fillets are cooked through. The flesh should flake easily with a fork.
- Set Aside: Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a plate and keep them warm.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Melt Butter and Heat Olive Oil: In the same skillet (no need to clean it, as the browned bits add flavor), add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 4 tablespoons of butter. Let the butter melt completely over medium heat.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Squeeze the juice of 2 lemons into the skillet and add the zest. The juice provides a bright tanginess, while the zest adds a concentrated lemon flavor.
- Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in a pinch of salt and pepper to balance the flavors. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly and combine the flavors.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Reintroduce the Fish: Return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet, placing them gently into the sauce. Spoon the lemon butter sauce generously over the fillets to coat them.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the fish for a burst of color and herby freshness.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the fillets to plates and drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this dish with steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
- Serve alongside a fluffy bed of rice or buttery mashed potatoes.
- Add a slice of crusty bread to mop up every drop of the luscious lemon butter sauce.
Enjoy the perfect balance of zesty lemon, creamy butter, and tender fish with every bite. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite! 🍋✨
