Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Coat the Fish: Pour the prepared lemon butter mixture evenly over the fish fillets, ensuring every piece is well coated for maximum flavor throughout.
- 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.
- 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