1. Prepare the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Fish
Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the fish fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and slightly crispy. Gently flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.
4. Combine and Garnish
Return the fish fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over them to coat. Let them warm in the sauce for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
5. Serve Immediately
Transfer the fillets to plates, spooning extra sauce over each serving. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Monitor the fish closely to prevent it from drying out.
- Customizable Heat: Add more red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed vegetables (like asparagus or green beans)
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Fluffy rice or quinoa
- Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
With its delightful combination of citrus and buttery richness, this Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a surefire hit for any occasion. Enjoy the burst of fresh flavors and let this recipe become a staple in your culinary repertoire!