Lemon Butter Fish Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that’s effortless yet bursting with flavor, this Lemon Butter Fish Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Tender, flaky white fish enveloped in a luscious lemon butter sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe brings bright citrus notes, a silky buttery finish, and a subtle hint of spice that elevates every bite. Once you discover how simple and satisfying this Lemon Butter Fish Recipe is, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delightful Lemon Butter Fish Recipe, you’ll use a handful of ingredients that are both straightforward and essential. Each one plays a key role: from the flaky white fish forming a perfect base, to the fragrant spices that tease your taste buds, and the fresh parsley brightening the final dish with vibrant color.

• 1 lb white fish fillets: Choose a firm white fish like halibut to ensure tender, juicy bites that hold up well to cooking.
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a gentle richness and helps achieve a perfect sear on the fillets.
• 1 tsp paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the fish.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings depth and a savory note without overpowering the lemon flavor.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the fish and the sauce.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Offers a mild kick and balances the brightness of the lemon.
• 1/4 cup butter: The star of the sauce, creating a silky and indulgent base that clings perfectly to the fish.
• 2 tbsp lemon juice: Infuses the dish with a fresh, vibrant citrus tang that brightens every mouthful.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced: Adds a burst of herbal freshness and a lovely pop of green color.
• Fresh lemon slices: For garnish, offering a charming look and extra zesty aroma at the table.

How to Make Lemon Butter Fish Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Start with fresh, dry fish fillets; patting them dry helps the spices adhere better and promotes a beautiful golden crust. Combine paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to form a simple yet flavorful rub. Spread this evenly on both sides of your fish fillets, making sure every inch is covered, setting the stage for a delicious sear.

Step 2: Sear the Fish

Heat your skillet on medium heat until it’s warm but not smoking, then pour in olive oil. The oil’s gentle flavor lets the fish shine while creating that satisfying golden exterior. Place the fillets carefully in the pan and cook for about two minutes per side — you’re looking for a light, crispy finish that also ensures the fish lifts easily from the skillet when it’s ready. Once seared, set the fillets aside so you can focus on that dreamy lemon butter sauce.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Turn the heat down to low and add butter to the now-empty skillet. Watch closely as it begins to brown slightly; this adds a rich nutty aroma and deepens the flavor. Then stir in fresh lemon juice, minced parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it all meld together for a couple of minutes until the sauce is silky and fragrant — the perfect tangy companion to our fish.

Step 4: Finish Cooking and Serve

Nestle fresh lemon slices into the pan and gently place your fish fillets back into the skillet. Cook over medium-low heat for about three minutes, carefully spooning the luscious sauce over the fish every 30 seconds. This step infuses the fillets with zesty, buttery goodness, making every forkful memorable. Finish by sprinkling extra fresh parsley on top and prepare to relish a dish that tastes as wonderful as it looks.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Fish Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh lemon slices not only add visual charm but also an extra burst of citrus aroma right at the dining table. Minced parsley sprinkled on top brightens the plate and adds a touch of herbal elegance, balancing the richness of the butter sauce with a fresh, green note.

Side Dishes

To complement this light yet indulgent fish, consider fluffy rice pilaf to soak up the lemon butter, or a crisp green salad for contrast. Roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus provide vibrant colors and textures that harmonize beautifully with the delicate flavors of the fish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve your fish fillets on a bed of wilted spinach or alongside a colorful quinoa salad. Use lemon slices and parsley sprigs to decorate your platter for a restaurant-worthy presentation that feels effortlessly special. Even simple rustic plates can elevate the experience when paired with this beautiful dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, refrigerate leftover Lemon Butter Fish Recipe in an airtight container for up to two days. Keeping the sauce separate can help preserve the fish’s texture if you prefer, but storing them together ensures every bite remains flavorful.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture, you can freeze leftovers by wrapping the fish tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to one month, but note that reheated fish may be slightly less tender.

Reheating

To warm up your lemon butter fish gently, use a low heat setting on the stove or microwave in short intervals, spooning extra sauce over the fillets to keep them moist. Avoid overcooking to prevent the fish from drying out — you want to preserve that tender, flaky texture.

FAQs

What kind of fish is best for this Lemon Butter Fish Recipe?

Firm white fish like halibut, cod, or sea bass work wonderfully. These varieties hold together well when cooking and have a delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon and butter.

Can I use lemon zest instead of lemon juice?

Absolutely! Lemon zest adds an even brighter and aromatic citrus note. You can mix zest into the sauce or sprinkle a little on top before serving for an extra pop of freshness.

Is there a substitute for butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use ghee or olive oil for a lighter or dairy-free version, although butter’s richness really complements the tangy lemon flavor best.

How can I tell when the fish is cooked perfectly?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork but still feel moist and tender inside. Cooking times can vary depending on thickness, so keep an eye for that gentle flaking texture.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger group?

Definitely! Just increase the ingredient quantities and cook the fish in batches if your pan can’t hold them all at once to ensure even searing and cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Butter Fish Recipe brings together simplicity, freshness, and indulgence in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining, making it a true kitchen favorite. Give this recipe a try, and soon you’ll be savoring your own beautiful, buttery, lemony fish dinners with joy and ease.

Lemon Butter Fish Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 42 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Lemon Butter Fish recipe features tender white fish fillets seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, fragrant lemon butter sauce with fresh parsley. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy and elegant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fish and Seasoning

• 1 lb white fish (about four 4-oz fillets, such as halibut)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Cooking

• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup butter

Sauce and Garnish

• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Fresh lemon slices, to garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of each fish fillet to ensure even seasoning and flavor penetration.
2. Sear the Fish: Heat a skillet on medium heat for about 1 minute. Add olive oil to the heated skillet, then place the fish fillets in the pan. Cook each side for about 2 minutes until golden brown and the fish easily lifts from the pan. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside carefully to avoid breaking the fillets.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low. Add butter to the same skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until it just starts to brown, releasing nutty aroma. Stir in lemon juice, minced parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the sauce is smooth and fragrant.
4. Finish Cooking and Serve: Add fresh lemon slices to the sauce in the skillet. Return the fish fillets to the pan and cook over medium-low heat for an additional 3 minutes. Spoon the sauce over the fish every 30 seconds to help the fillets absorb all the vibrant flavors. Once cooked through, top with more fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables or rice.

Notes

• Patting the fish dry before seasoning helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sticking.
• Use fresh parsley for garnish to enhance freshness and color.
• Do not overcook the fish; 2 minutes per side plus finishing in sauce ensures tender, flaky fillets.
• Adjust seasoning in the lemon butter sauce to your taste preference.
• This recipe works best with firm white fish such as halibut, cod, or sea bass.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American