Golden Pan Seared Fish with Lemon Butter -

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner option, then look no further than this Golden Pan Seared Fish with Lemon Butter. This dish is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet sophisticated enough to impress guests. With its bright, citrusy flavors and buttery finish, this dish brings the freshness of the sea right to your dinner table. The best part? It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Golden Pan Seared Fish with Lemon Butter is not only incredibly tasty, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. White fish like cod, tilapia, and halibut are lean sources of protein and are low in calories, making them perfect for health-conscious eaters. The lemon butter sauce adds a delightful richness, while the garlic and herbs provide an aromatic touch that elevates this dish to gourmet levels. Plus, with only eight ingredients, it’s easy to whip up without any fuss.

Pro Tips for Making the Golden Pan Seared Fish with Lemon Butter

To ensure that your fish turns out perfectly golden and flaky, follow these valuable tips:

Keep the fillets dry: Patting the fish dry gives it a better sear and improves the overall texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the fish in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than searing.
Use a nonstick skillet: This type of pan helps prevent the fish from sticking and makes flipping easier.
Let the butter brown slightly: This adds a nutty flavor to your sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
Fresh herbs are key: Use freshly chopped parsley for the best flavor; dried herbs just don’t have the same effect.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to bring the Golden Pan Seared Fish with Lemon Butter to life:

4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices, for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Begin by patting the fish fillets dry using paper towels. This important step helps achieve a crispy exterior. Next, season both sides of the fillets with salt, black pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor of the fish.

Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish. You can test the heat by dropping a small piece of fish into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re ready to go.

Step 3: Carefully place the fish fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook the fillets without touching them for 3-4 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when the fish releases easily from the pan.

Step 4: Gently flip the fillets using a spatula. Cook the other side for an additional 2-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish is thoroughly cooked and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Once cooked, reduce the heat to low and add unsalted butter to the pan. Allow the butter to melt slowly, incorporating all those delicious flavors from the skillet.

Step 6: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 7: Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the lemon zest into the pan. Stir gently to combine all the flavors into a delicious sauce.

Step 8: Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fish fillets and let it cook for an additional minute to ensure the flavors meld together. This step elevates the dish and adds a wonderful layer of flavor.

Step 9: Finally, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the cooked fish with fresh parsley and garnish the plate with lemon slices before serving. This adds a pop of color and enhances the citrusy flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Thaw them first and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.

What sides pair well with golden pan-seared fish?

Great side dishes include steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Lemon garlic pasta also complements this dish exceptionally well.

How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

Fish is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I substitute the fish with another type?

Absolutely! Other white fish varieties like snapper, mahi-mahi, or even salmon can work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.

Can I make this dish in advance?

This dish is best served immediately after cooking for optimal freshness. However, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Golden Pan Seared Fish with Lemon Butter is a delightful and straightforward dish that showcases the fresh flavors of seafood while being incredibly quick to prepare. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a weeknight dinner with family, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Try it out today for a delicious meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes!