Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

📝 Description:

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a quick and easy seafood dish that features tender, flaky white fish cooked in a bright and buttery lemon-garlic sauce. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor — perfect for pairing with veggies, rice, or salad for a healthy and satisfying meal.

🌍 Origin:

Inspired by Mediterranean and coastal cuisines, where fresh citrus and seafood are staples, this dish reflects the balance of lightness and richness. It’s a classic preparation popular in Southern Europe and North Africa, adapted for modern kitchens.

🧾 Ingredients (Quantities):

For the fish:

White fish fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia, sole, or haddock) – 4 fillets (about 150–180g each)
Salt – ½ tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
Paprika – ½ tsp
All-purpose flour – ¼ cup (for light dredging)
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Butter – 1 tbsp (for searing)

For the lemon butter sauce:

Butter – 3 tbsp
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Fresh lemon juice – 3 tbsp (from 1 large lemon)
Lemon zest – 1 tsp
Chicken or vegetable broth – ¼ cup
Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped
Capers – 1 tbsp (optional, for tang and saltiness)

🧂 Optional Ingredients:

Crushed red pepper flakes – for heat
White wine – 2 tbsp (in place of broth for depth)
Dill or basil – fresh herbs variation
Sliced lemon rounds – for garnish and extra citrus aroma
Shallots – 1 tbsp finely chopped for a deeper flavor

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

Prepare the fish:
- Pat fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Lightly dredge each fillet in flour, shaking off excess.
Sear the fish:
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add fish and cook for 2–3 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden and cooked through.
- Remove and set aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil.
Make the sauce:
- In the same pan, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and broth (or white wine). Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Add parsley and capers (if using).
Finish the dish:
- Return the fish fillets to the pan and spoon the sauce over them.
- Simmer for 1 minute to reheat the fish and absorb the flavors.
- Serve hot with extra sauce spooned on top.

✅ Tips for Success:

Don’t overcook the fish — it should flake easily and stay juicy.
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
Preheat your pan before searing to get a nice golden crust.
Use non-stick or cast iron for even cooking and easier flipping.

💡 Recommendations:

Pair with:
- Steamed rice or herbed couscous
- Roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach
- Garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa salad
Drink pairing: Dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or chilled mint lemonade
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the butter