Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Description

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a light yet flavorful dish featuring tender white fish coated in warm spices and pan-seared to perfection, then finished with a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce. Bright citrus, fragrant garlic, and fresh parsley balance the buttery sauce, making this an elegant yet easy meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Fish

4 fillets of white fish (cod, tilapia, or haddock)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Season the fish:
Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the fish:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add fish fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove fish from the skillet and set aside.
Make the lemon butter sauce:
In the same skillet, lower heat to medium-low. Add butter and olive oil. Once melted, stir in garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Add lemon flavor:
Stir in lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer gently for 1–2 minutes.
Combine & serve:
Return fish to the skillet, spoon sauce over the fillets, and cook for 1 more minute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque.
Fresh lemon juice is key for the best flavor—avoid bottled juice if possible.
Adjust lemon juice to taste if you prefer a milder citrus flavor.

Tips for Best Results

Dry the fish well before seasoning to get a nice golden crust.
Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
Low heat for sauce: Prevents garlic from burning and butter from separating.
Extra richness: Add a splash of cream to the sauce if desired.