quick and delicious fish dinner? This easy lemon butter fish recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish. The tender white fish fillets are seasoned with simple spices and topped with a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce that will make your taste buds dance.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Fish Recipe
This pan-seared fish recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The golden, crispy fish pairs beautifully with the bright lemon butter sauce. It’s healthy, flavorful, and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 4 fillets of white fish (such as 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
How to Make Lemon Butter Fish
Step 1: Get the Fish Ready
Start by patting your fish fillets completely dry using paper towels. This helps create a nice golden crust when cooking. Brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Fish Fillets
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned fish fillets in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until you see a beautiful golden crust form and the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. Remove the cooked fish from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium and use the same skillet (don’t clean it – those browned bits add flavor!). Add the butter and olive oil, letting the butter melt completely. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until it smells amazing but doesn’t turn brown.
Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce bubble gently for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Place your cooked fish fillets on a serving plate. Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce generously over each piece of fish. Add extra parsley and fresh lemon slices on top for a restaurant-style presentation.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Fish
Choose the right fish: Cod, tilapia, and haddock work best for this recipe. They’re mild-flavored and cook quickly.
Don’t skip drying the fish: Wet fish won’t get that golden crust we’re after.
Watch the garlic: Cook it just until fragrant to avoid bitter flavors.
Serve immediately: This dish tastes best when the sauce is still warm and the fish is hot.
What to Serve With Lemon Butter Fish
This versatile fish pairs well with many sides:
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus
- Mashed potatoes or rice pilaf
- Simple green salad
- Garlic bread
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover fish in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking. The fish is also delicious served cold over salad the next day.
Nutrition Benefits
White fish is an excellent source of lean protein and is low in calories. The lemon provides vitamin C, while the olive oil adds healthy fats. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and keto-friendly.
This easy lemon butter fish recipe proves that simple ingredients can create an impressive meal. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.
