This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is the perfect balance of light, flaky fish and a buttery, citrusy sauce. It’s quick, easy to make, and bursting with fresh, zesty flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: A blend of paprika, garlic, and onion enhances the fish, while the lemon butter sauce adds richness and brightness.
• Healthy and Versatile: Perfect for pairing with vegetables, rice, or pasta for a balanced meal.
• Works with Any White Fish: Use cod, tilapia, haddock, or your favorite mild fish.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 4 white fish fillets: Cod, tilapia, or haddock work perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds mild spice and color.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For savory flavor.

• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the fish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors.

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For bold, aromatic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brings bright acidity.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a fresh, herby finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Nonstick skillet or frying pan
• Spatula
• Zester or grater
• Small saucepan (for the sauce)

How to Make Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Step 1: Season the Fish

1. Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the fish fillets.

Step 2: Sear the Fish

1. Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
3. Transfer the cooked fish to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Simmer for 1–2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley, if using.

Step 4: Serve

1. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce generously over the cooked fish fillets.
2. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon slices, if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Lemon Butter Fish

• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Keep an eye on the fillets while cooking to ensure they remain tender and flaky.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a brighter flavor than bottled juice.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of dried thyme for an herby twist.
• Deglaze the Pan: For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine or chicken broth before making the sauce.

What to Serve with Lemon Butter Fish

• Steamed Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans make great sides.
• Rice or Quinoa: Perfect for soaking up the lemon butter sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, comforting pairing.
• Pasta: Toss spaghetti or angel hair pasta with the sauce for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently warm the fish and sauce in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
• Freeze: While fresh fish is best, you can freeze cooked fillets without the sauce for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw the fish completely and pat it dry before cooking.

Can I substitute another protein?

Absolutely. This recipe works well with chicken breasts or shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I know when the fish is cooked?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Sugar: 0g

Final Thoughts

This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is an easy and elegant meal that’s bursting with flavor. With its flaky texture and buttery citrus sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Pair it with your favorite sides for a dinner that feels fancy but comes together in no time.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know if you added your own creative twist.

Happy cooking! 🍋🐟✨