Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

Ingredients

• For the Fish:
  • 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
• For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 2 lemons
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Begin by patting the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important to remove any excess moisture and ensure a crisp, golden crust when cooked. Once the fish is dry, brush both sides of each fillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the fillets evenly with 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. The seasoning blend will infuse the fish with a savory, aromatic flavor that complements the lemon butter sauce.
2. Cook the Fish: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, place the seasoned fish fillets in the pan. Cook the fillets for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown on the outside and flakes easily with a fork. Depending on the thickness of your fillets, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. The fish should be tender and cooked through. Once done, remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the butter to melt completely and combine with the olive oil, creating a rich base for the sauce. Once the butter has melted, stir in 4 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can become bitter. Next, add the juice and zest of 2 lemons to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and butter mixture. The lemon juice will provide a fresh, zesty kick, while the zest adds a deeper citrus flavor.
4. Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. The sauce should be smooth and glossy, ready to pour over the fish.
5. Assemble and Serve: Arrange the cooked fish fillets on a serving platter. Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over the top of each fillet, making sure to distribute the garlic, parsley, and citrus evenly. For a fresh, vibrant finish, garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon slices. The extra lemon slices not only enhance the presentation but also provide a bright, refreshing accent to the dish. Serve immediately while the fish is still warm, and enjoy this flavorful and zesty seafood dish!
   

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