Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients:

2–4 white fish fillets (tilapia, cod, haddock, or snapper)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color)

2 tbsp olive oil (or butter, for searing)

3 tbsp unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 1 lemon

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

Lemon slices, for garnish

 

Instructions:

1. Prep the Fish:

Pat the fish dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.

 

2. Sear the Fish:

Heat olive oil (or butter) in a nonstick or cast-iron pan over medium heat.

Cook the fillets 2–3 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden and flaky.

Remove and set aside on a plate.

 

3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:

In the same pan, melt the 3 tbsp butter.

Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn).

Stir in lemon zest and juice. Let it bubble for about 30 seconds.

Add parsley. Stir and taste—adjust with more lemon or salt if needed.

 

4. Serve:

Spoon the zesty lemon butter sauce over the fish.

Garnish with lemon slices and more parsley if desired.