Name: Lemon Butter Fish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock).; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour.; 1 teaspoon salt.; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.; 2 tablespoons olive oil.; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.; 3 garlic cloves, minced.; 1/4 cup chicken broth.; 2 tablespoons lemon juice.; Zest of 1 lemon.; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped.; Lemon slices (for garnish).

This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe features tender white fish fillets cooked to perfection in a flavorful lemon butter sauce. With the bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for a light meal. Serve with sides like roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying dinner. Store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them cold as a salad topping or reheated gently for a warm meal.

These Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets are a delightful and refreshing dish perfect for a light meal. Combining the bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs with tender white fish fillets, this recipe is simple yet full of flavor. Let's explore the ingredients you'll need for this delicious recipe.

INGREDIENTS

White fish fillets: Four fillets of cod, tilapia, or haddock, providing a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with lemon and butter.
All-purpose flour: A quarter cup, for lightly coating the fish.
Salt: One teaspoon, to season the fish and flour coating.
Black pepper: Half a teaspoon, for a subtle spice in the coating.
Olive oil: Two tablespoons, for frying the fish to a golden brown.
Unsalted butter: Four tablespoons, to create a rich, buttery sauce.
Garlic cloves: Three, minced, adding a fragrant flavor to the sauce.
Chicken broth: A quarter cup, for the base of the lemon butter sauce.
Lemon juice: Two tablespoons, providing a tangy zest.
Lemon zest: From one lemon, enhancing the citrus flavor.
Fresh parsley: Two tablespoons, chopped, for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
Lemon slices: For garnish, adding a decorative touch and extra lemon flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each fish fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Step 2:: Cook the Fish: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3:: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Step 4:: Add the Lemon Zest: Stir in the lemon zest and chopped parsley. Return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat them well.
Step 5:: Serve: Transfer the fish fillets to a serving platter and garnish with lemon slices and additional chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets hot and fresh from the skillet. They pair wonderfully with sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
For an extra touch, serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave at 30-second intervals until warmed through, taking care not to overcook.
Leftover fish can also be enjoyed cold, as a topping for salads or sandwiches. Simply chop the fillets into bite-sized pieces and toss them with mixed greens and a drizzle of vinaigrette for a refreshing salad option.

Helpful Notes

Variations: Enhance the lemon flavor by adding other citrus fruits like lime or orange. You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or tarragon for a more complex flavor profile.
Add-ins: For a spicy kick, incorporate minced chili peppers or red pepper flakes into the lemon butter sauce. Alternatively, create a creamy version by whisking in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef's Tip: Use both butter and olive oil for cooking the fish. Olive oil has a higher smoke point, while butter adds rich flavor, giving you the best of both worlds.
Chef's Tip: Pat the fish dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking to achieve a beautifully browned exterior.
Chef's Tip: Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Roll the lemon firmly on the counter before juicing to release as much juice as possible.