Indulge your taste buds with this quick and easy lemon butter fillet recipe. Perfect for seafood lovers and home cooks alike, this dish is bound to become a go-to favorite.
With its zesty lemon flavor and perfectly cooked fish, it’s a winner for weeknights and special occasions. Follow our step-by-step guide and get ready to wow your family or dinner guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lemon butter fillet recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. Here's why it’s fantastic:
- Quick to Make: From prep to plate, this recipe takes just 20 minutes.
- Flavor-Packed: The buttery, tangy lemon sauce enhances the natural flavor of the fish.
- Healthy & Versatile: Rich in protein and omega-3s, this dish works with cod, tilapia, or salmon.
- Beginner-Friendly: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, it’s perfect for any home cook.
If you’re a seafood lover or looking to add variety to your weekly dinners, this recipe is a game-changer!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dish.
For the Fillets
- 4 fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or salmon work beautifully)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a light crust)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Zest of one lemon
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, to thin the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparing Your Lemon Butter Fillets
Follow these straightforward steps to make your fantastic lemon butter fillets perfectly every time.
Step 1: Prep the Fillets
Pat your fish fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear nicely in the pan. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and black pepper. For added texture, lightly coat the fillets in flour.
Step 2: Sear the Fish
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken or vegetable broth if you’re using it.
Increase the heat to medium and whisk in 3 tablespoons of butter until the sauce is smooth and silky.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked fillets to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over them. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Plate the fillets and generously drizzle extra sauce on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish and a pop of color.
What to Serve with Lemon Butter Fillets
Pair your lemon butter fillets with any of the following for a complete and satisfying meal:
- Side Dishes: Steamed asparagus, sautéed spinach, or roasted potatoes complement the richness of the sauce.
- Grains: Serve alongside fluffy rice, quinoa, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up all the extra sauce.
- Bread: A warm crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up every bit of that savory lemon butter sauce.
Tips for Success
- Choose Your Fish Wisely: Fresh, firm fillets work best. Avoid overly thin pieces as they may break apart during cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your fillets as fish cooks quickly. Overcooking can dry out even the best piece of fish.
- Double the Sauce: Love sauce? Make a double batch to ensure every bite is drenched in that rich buttery goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat the fillets dry to prevent splattering during cooking.
What other herbs work in this recipe?
Thyme, dill, or chives can be used in place of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Absolutely! Vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach can be briefly sautéed in the lemon butter sauce for an easy one-pan meal.
Time to Cook!
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to cook up this fantastic lemon butter fillet recipe. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or trying something new, this dish promises to deliver bold flavors without the fuss.
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