Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

Introduction

This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe brings bright, tangy flavors together with creamy butter and aromatic garlic. It’s a simple, quick dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that feels special and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 pieces fish fillets (cod or tilapia), fresh and flaky
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juice and zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For garnish: lemon slices

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Step 2: Place the fish fillets in the prepared dish and season them evenly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the lemon butter mixture over the fish, making sure each fillet is coated.
5. Step 5: Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and garnish with lemon slices before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh fish for the best flavor and texture; if using frozen, thaw completely before cooking.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter mixture for some heat.
• Serve over rice or with steamed vegetables to make it a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to prevent the fish from drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, this recipe works well with other white fish like haddock or basa, or even salmon if you prefer a richer flavor.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. Overcooking can make it dry, so keep an eye on it during baking.

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

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4.7 from 98 reviews

This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe features tender cod or tilapia fillets baked to perfection with a vibrant lemon butter sauce, garlic, and a touch of paprika, creating a bright, flavorful, and healthy meal in just 25 minutes.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Fish Fillets

• 4 pieces fish fillets (cod or tilapia), fresh and flaky

Lemon Butter Sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 piece lemon, juice and zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking and to add extra flavor.
2. Season the Fish: Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Season each piece generously with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor and add vibrant color.
3. Make Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined, creating a bright and aromatic sauce.
4. Coat the Fish: Pour the prepared lemon butter mixture evenly over the fish fillets, ensuring every piece is well coated for maximum flavor throughout.
5. Bake the Fish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked perfectly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the fish from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for an herbal fresh note. Garnish with lemon slices to add a decorative, zesty touch before serving.

Notes

• Use fresh fish fillets such as cod or tilapia for the best texture and flavor.
• Do not overcook the fish to keep it flaky and moist; baking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste, especially salt and paprika for mild earthiness.
• The lemon zest adds a bright punch—do not omit for best results.
• This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Keywords: lemon butter fish, baked fish fillet, cod recipe, tilapia recipe, healthy fish dinner, easy fish bake, lemon garlic fish