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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

A delightful dish that combines fresh lemons with rich butter for a quick and flavorful fish meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Butter Sauce, Easy Dinner, Fish Fillet, Healthy Recipe, Lemon Fish
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the Fish

  • 4 pieces white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock) Light and flaky fish options
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness and moisture
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Infuses warm flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Provides subtle sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds smokiness and color
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Essential seasonings

For the Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter Enriches the sauce
  • 2 pieces lemons (juice and zest) Provides refreshing flavor
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for bold aroma
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Garnish and adds color

Instructions

Preparation

  • Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel.
  • Mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper in a small bowl.
  • Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the fish fillets.

Cooking

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned fish fillets.
  • Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and flaky. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  • Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining butter and olive oil to the skillet, and melt them together.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in the lemon juice and zest, add chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Serving

  • Place the cooked fish fillets on a plate and pour the lemon butter sauce over the top.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon slices.
  • Best enjoyed immediately.

Notes

For best results, use fresh lemon juice and avoid overcooking the fish. Customize the sauce with capers or herbs like dill.