Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets

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Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillets

This recipe features tender white fish with a golden, seasoned crust and a bright, buttery citrus finish.

Ingredients

Category Ingredients
The Fish 4-6 White Fish Fillets (such as Cod, Tilapia, or Halibut)
The Seasoning 1 tsp Paprika, ½ tsp Garlic Powder, ½ tsp Onion Powder, Salt and Black Pepper to taste
The Zest & Butter 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter (melted), 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice, 1 tsp Lemon Zest
The Garnish Fresh Parsley (finely chopped), Lemon slices for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Fillets

Pat the fish fillets thoroughly dry with a paper towel. This is the most important step for achieving that beautiful golden-brown sear you see in the photo.

2. Season Generously

In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this spice blend evenly over both sides of each fillet, pressing it slightly so it sticks.

3. Whisk the Lemon Butter

In another small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until well blended.

4. The Cooking Process (Choose your method):

  • Pan-Sear (Stovetop): Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until the fish flakes easily with a fork. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, pour half of the lemon butter mixture over the fish to glaze it.

  • Bake (Oven): Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place fillets in a greased baking dish, drizzle the lemon butter mixture over them, and bake for 12–15 minutes until opaque and tender.

5. The Finishing Touch

Once cooked, pour any remaining lemon butter from the pan over the fillets. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pairing: This fish pairs beautifully with the Rainbow Garden Vegetable Soup you’ve been making, providing a high-protein centerpiece to your meal.

  • Side: Serve alongside steamed asparagus or over a bed of fluffy quinoa to soak up that delicious lemon butter sauce.

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