Ingredients for Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

• 4 (6 oz) white fish fillets (e.g., cod, tilapia): The star of this healthy weeknight dinner. Choose firm, flaky white fish for the best texture and flavor.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Provides the rich, creamy foundation for the delectable lemon butter sauce. Use high-quality butter for ultimate flavor.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Essential for searing the fish to a golden perfection and adding a subtle fruity note. A good quality oil makes a difference.
• 2 fresh lemons, divided (1 juiced, 1 for wedges): The absolute essential ingredient for that bright, zesty, and tangy flavor profile. Always use fresh, never bottled juice.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a pungent warmth, perfectly complementing the fish and lemon. Mince finely for even distribution.
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce, adding body and richness without being too heavy. Low-sodium is often best.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a vibrant, herbaceous freshness and a beautiful pop of green color. Chop just before serving for maximum impact.
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, or more broth): Deglazes the pan, adding a complex layer of acidity and sophisticated flavor. Broth is a fine substitute.
• 1 small shallot, minced: Offers a milder, sweeter onion flavor compared to regular onions, enhancing the sauce’s aromatic complexity. Mince very finely.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste: Crucial for seasoning the fish and balancing all the flavors in the sauce. Adjust to your personal taste preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste: Adds a sharp, piquant warmth that elevates the overall taste profile. Grind fresh for superior flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Introduces a subtle hint of warmth and a touch of exciting spice to the lemon butter fish fillet. Add more for extra kick.
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (for garnish): A delightful finishing herb that beautifully complements seafood with its unique, delicate anise-like flavor. Adds freshness.
• Lemon wedges, from 1 lemon (for serving): Perfect for an extra squeeze of bright, fresh acidity right before eating. Enhances the dish’s vibrant character.

How to Make Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Step 1: Season Fish

Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This ensures even flavor distribution. A dry fish gets a better sear, crucial for this Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet.

Step 2: Sear Fillets

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned fish and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan for a perfect sear.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

After removing the cooked fish, add unsalted butter, minced shallot, and minced garlic to the same pan. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened. This builds a delicious base for your Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet sauce.

Step 4: Build Sauce

Deglaze the pan with dry white wine (if using), then add chicken or vegetable broth and fresh lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. This creates the rich, tangy sauce for the ultimate Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet.

Step 5: Finish Sauce

Stir in the fresh chopped parsley and dill into the simmering sauce. Gently return the cooked fish fillets to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon the luscious sauce over the fish to coat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Plate Dish

Carefully transfer the Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet to individual plates. Ensure each fillet receives a generous amount of that incredible lemon butter sauce from the pan. This is where your delicious meal truly shines.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with extra fresh dill and fresh lemon wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or rice, for a truly satisfying and healthy weeknight dinner. Enjoy your Quick Lemon Butter Fish Fillet!

How to Store Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

To store leftover Lemon Butter Fish Fillet, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Don’t leave it out too long – otherwise, it spoils quickly (don’t do what I did and forget it!). Discard if it smells off or has a slimy texture.

You can prep sauce components like minced garlic, shallots, and lemon juice a day ahead and refrigerate. Cook the fish fresh just before serving for the best texture. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth.

What to Serve with Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

Serve this Quick and Easy Healthy Lemon Butter Fish Fillet immediately, straight from the pan, to enjoy its tender flakiness and vibrant sauce. For a special touch, garnish with fresh dill and extra lemon wedges. It’s perfect when paired with simple sides like steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or fluffy quinoa. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling water would beautifully complement the dish.

My personal favorite way to serve this dish is simply alongside a generous scoop of creamy mashed potatoes. The rich, buttery sauce from the fish is perfect for coating the potatoes, creating a truly comforting and satisfying meal. It allows the bright lemon and tender fish to shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the white fish fillets in this Quick Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Cod and tilapia are great, but salmon, halibut, or even shrimp work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times slightly to prevent overcooking, ensuring your Lemon Butter Fish Fillet remains tender and flaky.

→ How do I prevent my fish from sticking to the pan when searing?

Ensure your fish is very dry by patting it with paper towels before seasoning. Also, preheat your olive oil until shimmering, then add the fish. Don’t move it until a good crust forms. I learned this the hard way, so trust me on this!

→ How long can I store leftover Quick Lemon Butter Fish Fillet?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor. Discard if it smells off; I once forgot mine and it was not pretty.

→ Can I prep components of this Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Mince garlic, shallots, and chop parsley/dill a day in advance, storing them refrigerated. For the best texture and taste, always cook the fish fresh just before you plan to serve your delicious meal.

→ Can I easily double this Quick Lemon Butter Fish Fillet recipe for more servings?

You can certainly double it! Just ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the fish; cook in batches if necessary. You might also need a slightly larger skillet for the sauce to accommodate the increased volume and flavor.