Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite dishes: lemon butter fish fillet! I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of melting butter and zesty lemon filled my kitchen, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of flavors is just divine! It’s light, yet so satisfying, and the best part? It’s packed with protein and low in fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that’s quick to whip up on a busy weeknight but still feels fancy enough for a dinner party, this is it! Trust me, once you try this lemon butter fish fillet, you’ll want to make it again and again. The bright, fresh taste of lemon paired with buttery goodness just can’t be beaten!

Ingredients for Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

• 4 fish fillets (I love using cod or tilapia for their mild flavor)
• 2 tablespoons butter (the star that makes everything so rich and delicious)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (don’t skimp on this for that bright zing!)
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better, right?)
• Salt and pepper to taste (seasoning is key to making those flavors pop)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (it adds a lovely touch of color and freshness)

How to Prepare Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Getting the lemon butter fish fillet ready is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar by the end. Let’s break it down step by step!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your fish cooks evenly and helps that buttery goodness to really mingle with the lemon juice. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part!

Prepare the Lemon Butter Mixture

Now, let’s get that lemon butter mixture going! Grab a skillet and melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s all melted and bubbling (which is when the magic starts!), add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it’s fragrant but not browned—nobody likes burnt garlic! Then, stir in the fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Oh, the smell is going to be heavenly!

Assemble the Dish

Next, it’s time to assemble your dish! Take your fish fillets and place them in a baking dish, making sure they’re nice and cozy together. Now, pour that luscious lemon butter mixture right over the fish, ensuring each fillet gets a good drizzle. This is where all those flavors come together, so make sure to cover them well!

Baking Instructions

Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it, because overcooking can make your lovely fillets dry—yuck! Once it’s ready, take a moment to admire your masterpiece before garnishing it with fresh parsley. Serve it up warm, and get ready for some serious compliments!

Nutritional Information

Before we dive into the deliciousness of this lemon butter fish fillet, let’s talk nutrition! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so they’re just estimates. But here’s a rough idea of what you can expect per serving:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 15g
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 2g

It’s a great way to enjoy a meal that’s not only flavorful but also keeps things light and healthy. Perfect for those days when you want a satisfying dish without the guilt! Enjoy every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Rich, buttery flavor balanced with zesty lemon for a refreshing twist.
• Healthy option packed with protein and low in fat, guilt-free indulgence!
• Versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
• Impressive enough for dinner parties but simple enough for everyday meals.
• Minimal cleanup—just one pan and a baking dish!
• Great way to introduce fish to picky eaters with its mild flavors.
• Customizable with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your lemon butter fish fillet turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips that I’ve picked up along the way:

• Don’t skip the preheating! I can’t stress enough how important it is to have your oven preheated. This helps cook the fish evenly and locks in those delightful flavors.
• Choose the right fish. While I love cod and tilapia, feel free to experiment with other white fish like haddock or even salmon if you’re feeling adventurous! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
• Watch the garlic! Sauté it just until fragrant. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste that no one wants in their dish. You want that lovely garlic aroma without the char!
• Check for doneness carefully. Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork, but don’t go poking it too much. You want it to stay juicy, so check it gently!
• Season to taste. Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you want!
• Garnish generously! Don’t be shy with the fresh parsley! It brightens up the dish visually and adds a fresh pop of flavor.
• Let it rest! After taking it out of the oven, let the fish sit for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to settle back into the fish, making every bite tender and flavorful.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious lemon butter fish fillet that will wow your family and friends. Happy cooking!

Variations of Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

If you’re like me and love to get creative in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are so many fun ways to switch up this lemon butter fish fillet recipe! Here are some of my favorite variations that keep the dish exciting and fresh:

• Herb-Infused Delight: Add a handful of fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or basil to the lemon butter mixture before pouring it over the fish. The herbs will add an aromatic twist that complements the lemon beautifully!
• Spicy Kick: Feeling adventurous? Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the lemon butter for a bit of heat. It’s a great way to spice things up without overwhelming the dish!
• Citrus Medley: Swap out the lemon juice for a combination of lemon and lime juice for a zesty twist. You could even incorporate a splash of orange juice for a sweet, citrusy flavor that’s absolutely divine!
• Different Fish: While cod and tilapia are my go-to choices, you can also try using halibut, snapper, or even salmon for a richer taste. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets!
• Cheesy Addition: For a decadent touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese over the fish before baking. The cheese will melt and create a lovely crust that adds both flavor and texture.
• Vegetable Boost: Add some sliced cherry tomatoes or thinly sliced bell peppers in the baking dish along with the fish. They’ll roast beautifully alongside the fish and add a pop of color and flavor!
• Nutty Flavor: Top the fish with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the tender fish.

These variations keep the classic lemon butter fish fillet recipe exciting and allow you to tailor it to your taste. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got this delicious lemon butter fish fillet ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve it with! Pairing this dish with the right sides can truly elevate your meal and make it even more satisfying. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments that complement the bright, buttery flavors of the fish:

• Steamed Vegetables: A mix of colorful, lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans adds a fresh crunch and keeps things light.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic are a classic comfort food that pairs wonderfully with the zesty fish.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a nutty flavor and a healthy grain option.
• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs and spices serves as a lovely base to soak up that lemon butter sauce. You could even add some toasted nuts for extra texture!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the fish beautifully and add a burst of freshness.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs are always a hit! They add a delightful crunch and complement the soft, flaky fish.
• Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a slice of warm, crusty bread! It’s perfect for mopping up any remaining lemon butter sauce on your plate.

With these side dishes, you’ll create a delicious and well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress! Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or your personal favorites. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve whipped up this delightful lemon butter fish fillet and have some leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat it so you can enjoy it again later! First off, let the fish cool completely before storing. It’ll help prevent any unwanted condensation in your container.

To store, place the leftover fish fillets in an airtight container. This will keep them fresh and prevent any strong odors from mingling in your fridge. You can keep them in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. If you’re not planning to eat them within that time, you can also freeze them! Just wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should stay good in the freezer for about 2 months.

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the fish on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave if you’re in a rush, but be careful not to overdo it—30 seconds to 1 minute should do the trick. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t become rubbery!

And there you have it! With these handy storage and reheating tips, you can savor your lemon butter fish fillet even after the first serving. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet: 7 Delightful Secrets Revealed

---

• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A light and flavorful lemon butter fish fillet dish.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 fish fillets
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place fish fillets in a baking dish.
6. Pour the lemon butter mixture over the fish.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• Use any white fish fillet for this recipe.
• Adjust lemon juice to taste.
• Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: lemon butter fish fillet