If you love bright, fresh, and buttery flavors that melt in your mouth, this Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe is going to be your new favorite. It’s a restaurant-quality dish you can whip up right in your own kitchen — perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for guests. The combination of pan-seared white fish and a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce creates a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 4 fillets of white fish (cod, tilapia, haddock, or halibut)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 2 fresh lemons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish:
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture — this helps them sear beautifully. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each fish fillet. - Cook the Fish:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned fish fillets. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Transfer the cooked fillets to a plate and keep warm. - Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt completely. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant — be careful not to burn it. - Add the Lemon:
Pour in the lemon juice and zest. Let the sauce simmer gently for 1–2 minutes so the flavors blend beautifully. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. - Combine:
Return the cooked fish to the skillet, spooning the warm lemon butter sauce over the top to coat each fillet. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. - Serve:
Serve immediately with extra sauce drizzled over the fish. Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
History
Lemon butter fish has its roots in Mediterranean and European coastal cuisine, where simplicity and freshness are celebrated. The pairing of citrus and butter dates back centuries — the French are known for their “beurre citronné,” while coastal Italians often finish grilled fish with olive oil and lemon. Over time, these techniques merged to create the modern lemon butter sauce we love today.
Benefits
- High in protein: White fish is lean, rich in protein, and supports muscle health.
- Heart-healthy: Olive oil and fish provide healthy fats that benefit cardiovascular function.
- Rich in vitamins: Lemons add a dose of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and aids digestion.
- Low in calories: This recipe is light yet filling, perfect for maintaining a balanced diet.
- Quick and easy: Ready in less than 25 minutes, it’s ideal for both beginners and busy cooks.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
Conclusion
This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a delightful harmony of crisp edges, tender flesh, and buttery citrus flavor. Every bite bursts with freshness, offering a perfect balance between richness and zest. It’s a dish that proves you don’t need complex ingredients to create something extraordinary — just the right blend of flavors, a bit of care, and a squeeze of lemon magic.