Ingredients:
- 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or halibut)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Fish:
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each fish fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Cook the Fish:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and chicken broth.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the fish fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices.
- Pair with your favorite sides such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest with creamy butter creates a sauce that’s both rich and tangy, perfectly complementing the mild flavor of the fish. The addition of garlic and parsley not only enhances the taste but also provides health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while parsley is packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Tips for a Perfect Dish
- Choose Fresh Fish: For the best results, use fresh fish fillets. If using frozen fish, make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Fish: Fish cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to ensure it stays tender and moist. Overcooked fish can become dry and tough.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your taste. If you like it more tangy, add extra lemon juice.
Health Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Fish is a great source of lean protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The lemon juice adds a dose of vitamin C, which is good for the immune system, and the garlic adds additional anti-inflammatory properties.
Perfect Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve this fish fillet with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a hearty grain like quinoa or brown rice.
- Beverages: A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a splash of lemon.
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