ZESTY LEMON BUTTER FISH FILLET

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🐟 ZESTY LEMON BUTTER FISH FILLET

📖 Description

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a light, flavorful dish where tender fish is pan-seared and finished in a silky butter sauce infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. It’s bright, comforting, and elegant—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal without the fuss.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 2 fish fillets (cod, tilapia, sole, halibut, or salmon – ~170 g / 6 oz each)

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tsp lemon zest

  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp paprika (optional)

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • Lemon slices (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the fish
    Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

  2. Heat the pan
    Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat.

  3. Cook the fish
    Place fish in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Remove and set aside.

  4. Make the sauce
    In the same pan, add remaining butter and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Add lemon
    Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest. Simmer gently for 1 minute.

  6. Finish & serve
    Return fish to the pan, spoon sauce over the fillets, and cook for another minute. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices.

📝 Notes

  • Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor—avoid bottled juice.

  • White fish works best, but salmon adds richness.

  • If using frozen fish, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.

  • Use a non-stick or stainless steel pan for a perfect sear.

  • Add a splash of white wine for extra depth.

  • Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

🍽️ Servings

Serves: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

  • Calories: 320 kcal

  • Protein: 32 g

  • Fat: 20 g

  • Saturated Fat: 8 g

  • Carbohydrates: 3 g

  • Fiber: 0.5 g

  • Sodium: 420 mg

(Values may vary based on fish type)

🌿 Health Benefits

  • High in protein for muscle repair and satiety

  • Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (especially if using salmon)

  • Lemon aids digestion and adds vitamin C

  • Low carb & gluten-free, great for healthy eating plans

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
A: Yes! Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, then pour the lemon butter sauce over.

Q: What sides go best with this dish?
A: Steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute butter with vegan butter or extra olive oil.

Q: How do I know the fish is cooked?
A: The fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque.

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