The true beauty of this Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet lies in its simplicity and bright, tangy flavor. The fresh lemon juice and zest infuse the delicate fish with a citrusy zing that pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy butter. Searing the fish before baking not only adds a beautiful golden color but also ensures that the fillets remain moist and tender. This dish is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving this to family on a weeknight or impressing guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 4 fish fillets (tilapia, cod, or your preferred white fish)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the fillets on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, and capers (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Sear the Fish:
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the fish fillets to the skillet. Sear the fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step helps to lock in the moisture and flavor of the fish.
- Bake the Fish:
- Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the seared fish fillets in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the fish from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Garnish with lemon slices before serving.
- Serve the zesty lemon butter fish fillets immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad.
