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Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a simple, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The buttery lemon sauce elevates the delicate fish fillet, making it rich yet refreshing. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or sole)
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra lemon slices for garnish)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or white wine)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon capers or fresh thyme for extra flavor
Instructions:
- Prepare the fish:
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the fish:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the fish fillets to the skillet. Cook for 2-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until golden brown and cooked through (the fish should flake easily with a fork).
- Remove the fish from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Tent it loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Make the lemon butter sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and broth (or white wine), stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
- If desired, stir in capers or fresh thyme for added flavor.
- Finish the dish:
- Return the fish fillets to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over them. Let the fish soak in the sauce for another minute to absorb the flavors.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Transfer the fish fillets to plates, spoon some sauce over the top, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a light salad.
Tips:
- Choosing fish: This recipe works well with mild, white fish such as tilapia, cod, haddock, or sole. You can also try it with salmon or trout if you prefer a richer fish.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier version of the sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking.
- Add vegetables: You can cook vegetables like asparagus or spinach in the same skillet after removing the fish, letting them soak in the flavorful sauce.
This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe is a quick and delicious way to prepare fish with bright, tangy flavors—perfect for a light and elegant meal!
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