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Lemon Butter Fish Recipe

Lemon Butter Fish Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Succulent golden lemon butter fish brings Mediterranean coastal charm to dinner tables with its delicate, zesty flavor profile. Rich butter sauce and perfectly seared fish fillets create an elegant meal that promises restaurant-quality dining right at home.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 white fish fillets (120150 grams/45 ounces), skinless and boneless
  • 2 tablespoons white flour
  • 2 tablespoons oil (canola recommended)

Butter and Seasoning:

  • 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt
  • Finely ground pepper

Garnish:

  • Lemon wedges
  • Finely chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly pat fish fillets with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp exterior. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Carefully coat each fillet in all-purpose flour, gently tapping to remove any surplus coating, creating a light, even layer.
  3. Warm vegetable oil or olive oil in a non-stick skillet over high heat until the surface begins to shimmer and appear slightly rippled, indicating optimal cooking temperature.
  4. Gently place floured fish fillets into the hot skillet, allowing them to sear without overcrowding the pan. Cook for approximately 1½ minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.
  5. Carefully flip the fillets using a flexible spatula, cooking the reverse side for an additional 1½ minutes, adjusting time slightly for thicker or thinner pieces to ensure even, perfectly cooked fish.
  6. Transfer the seared fish to serving plates, preparing a vibrant lemon butter sauce to drizzle overtop. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh herb flavor.
  7. Accompany the dish with wedges of fresh lemon, allowing diners to add an extra citrusy brightness to their perfectly cooked fish fillets.

Notes

  • Quickly pat fish dry to ensure a crispy exterior that locks in moisture and enhances browning.
  • Season generously with salt and pepper before dredging to build deep, balanced flavor profiles.
  • Shake off excess flour thoroughly to prevent clumping and achieve a light, golden coating during cooking.
  • Select high-heat cooking oils like avocado or grapeseed to create perfect sear without burning delicate fish.
  • Use fresh parsley and lemon wedges as vibrant garnishes that brighten the dish’s overall presentation and taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 650 kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 30g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg