Description
This Lemon Butter Fish recipe features tender white fish fillets seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce infused with garlic, paprika, and fresh parsley. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasoning
- 1 lb white fish (about four 4-oz fillets, such as halibut)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Cooking
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh lemon slices, to garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Evenly rub this spice mixture over both sides of each fish fillet to ensure flavorful seasoning.
- Sear the Fish: Heat a skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute. Add the olive oil to the skillet and then carefully place the fish fillets into the pan. Cook each side for approximately 2 minutes until the fish is golden brown and easily lifts from the pan. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the same skillet and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it just begins to brown, releasing a nutty aroma. Stir in the lemon juice, minced parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue cooking the sauce for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes smooth and fragrant.
- Finish Cooking and Serve: Add fresh lemon slices to the sauce in the skillet. Return the fish fillets to the pan and cook over medium-low heat for an additional 3 minutes. Spoon the sauce over the fish every 30 seconds so the fillets absorb the flavors. Once cooked through, garnish with extra fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry before seasoning helps achieve a crispy sear.
- If halibut is unavailable, other firm white fish like cod or snapper can be used.
- Adjust seasoning and lemon juice to taste for a more or less tangy sauce.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
- Ensure the butter does not burn by lowering the heat when making the sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
