Introduction
Indulging in a delicious and light dish of pan-seared fish fillets with a decadent lemon butter sauce is perfect for any occasion. This simple yet elegant recipe highlights the delicate flavors of white fish while adding a zesty twist with fresh lemon juice. Enhance your dining experience with a garnish of chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a refreshing touch.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 thin white fish fillets (120-150g / 4-5 oz each), skinless and boneless
2 tablespoons white flour
2 tablespoons oil (e.g., canola)
60g / 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and finely ground pepper
Lemon wedges, for serving
Finely chopped parsley, optional
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 2
Directions
1. Prepare the Fish:
– Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.
– Season both sides with salt and pepper.
– Lightly coat each fillet with flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Cook the Fish:
– Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over high heat until shimmering.
– Place the fish in the skillet and cook for about 1.5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.
– Transfer the cooked fish to serving plates.
3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
– In a light-colored saucepan or small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
– Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma (approximately 3 minutes).
– Remove from heat immediately and pour into a small bowl.
– Stir in the fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper.
– Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve:
– Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the cooked fish fillets.
– Garnish with finely chopped parsley, if desired.
– Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Fish:
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Lightly coat each fillet with flour, shaking off any excess.
Cook the Fish:
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over high heat until shimmering. Place the fish in the skillet and cook for about 1.5 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Transfer the cooked fish to serving plates.
Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
In a light-colored saucepan or small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma (approximately 3 minutes). Remove from heat immediately and pour into a small bowl. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve:
Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the cooked fish fillets. Garnish with finely chopped parsley, if desired. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
Fish Selection:
Choose thin white fish fillets such as sole, tilapia, or cod for best results.
Cooking Time:
Keep an eye on the fish while cooking, as the timing may vary based on the thickness of the fillets and heat level.
Butter Monitoring:
Be vigilant when browning the butter, as it can quickly go from golden to burnt.
Presentation:
For an appealing presentation, consider using a white plate to showcase the golden fish and vibrant lemon butter sauce.
Storage:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry to ensure a good sear. Season with salt and pepper for flavor. Lightly coat with flour to create a crispy exterior when cooked.
Cooking the Fish
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over high heat until it shimmers. Cook the fish for about 1.5 minutes per side until golden and crispy. This ensures a quick cook that keeps the fish tender.
Making Lemon Butter Sauce
Melt the butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Cook until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. This technique enhances the flavor of the butter. Stir in lemon juice and season to taste for a zesty finish.
Serving the Dish
Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the fish fillets. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges. This adds a fresh look and flavor to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and coating with flour.
What type of fish works best for this dish?
Light, flaky white fish like cod, tilapia, or sole is ideal for this recipe due to their delicate flavor and texture.
How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish should be golden brown on the outside and opaque in the center. A quick poke with a fork should easily flake the fish apart.
Can I use a different type of oil for cooking?
Yes, other oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable or sunflower oil, can also be used in place of canola oil.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Conclusion
The combination of golden, crispy fish fillets drizzled with a rich lemon butter sauce creates a delightful dish that is both simple and elegant. The freshness of the lemon and the optional garnish of parsley elevate the flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve this dish alongside your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Fish Tacos
Use the fish fillets as the base for delicious fish tacos. Top with cabbage slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
Herbed Quinoa Salad
Serve the fish with a side of herbed quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese for a refreshing meal.
Sautéed Vegetables
Pair the fish with sautéed seasonal vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini for a nutritious side.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
A creamy garlic mashed potato dish complements the lemony fish beautifully, adding a comforting element to the meal.
Rice Pilaf
Serve the fish over a flavorful rice pilaf seasoned with herbs and spices for a comforting and satisfying dish.
Pasta with Lemon Olive Oil
Try serving the fish with a light pasta dressed in lemon olive oil, garnished with fresh herbs for a delightful combination.
