Enjoy a restaurant-style dish at home with this flavorful and buttery Lemon Butter Fish Fillet. This recipe features tender, flaky fish fillets cooked in a rich lemon butter sauce that adds a burst of freshness and indulgence. Perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this dish is simple, elegant, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 fish fillets (tilapia, cod, or salmon)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional for extra sauce)
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fish: Pat dry the fish fillets with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and red chili flakes.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt and blend with the oil.
- Sear the Fish: Carefully place the fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Gently flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fish and set it aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the remaining butter. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Lemon Flavor: Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and broth (if using). Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken and absorb all the flavors.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them. Let them soak up the flavors for about a minute.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the fish and add lemon slices for extra freshness. Serve immediately with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.