Description
This Pan-Seared Fish Fillet with Lemon Butter Sauce is an easy, quick, and delectable dinner option that’s packed with flavor and healthy benefits. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this fish recipe combines a rich lemon butter sauce with a hint of capers to bring out the fresh taste of the fish. Serve it with a light salad for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Busy cooks who need a quick, healthy dinner option.
- Seafood lovers looking for a light and flavorful meal.
- Anyone following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet.
- Home chefs who want a restaurant-quality fish dish with minimal effort.
Why It’s Great
Here’s why you’ll love this pan-seared fish recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy and Low-Carb: Packed with protein and keto-friendly when paired with a light salad.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The lemon butter and capers add a rich, zesty touch.
- Versatile: Use any fish fillet you like, such as catfish, tilapia, or cod.
Ingredients
- Fish fillets (use your favorite variety; catfish, tilapia, or cod work well)
- 1 lemon, sliced and juiced
- 1 tbsp capers
- 2 tbsp butter
- Seafood seasoning (or all-purpose seasoning of choice)
- Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) to coat the pan lightly
How to Make Pan-Seared Fish Fillet with Lemon Butter Sauce
- Season the Fish: Liberally coat your fish fillets with seafood seasoning or an all-purpose seasoning blend.
- Heat the Pan: Bring a skillet to medium-high heat. Add just enough olive oil to lightly coat the pan, then add 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Cook the Fish: Place the fish fillets in the hot pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until nicely browned.
- Add Lemon and Capers: Add sliced lemon, a squeeze of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of capers to the pan.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Carefully flip the fish and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side, reducing heat to medium to prevent burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fish with the lemon butter sauce drizzled over the top, and garnish with extra lemon slices if desired. Pair with a light salad, like tomato and arugula, for a complete meal.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula for flipping
- Tongs (optional)
- Serving plate
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking or drying out the fish.
- Freezer: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, as fish can become dry or lose texture after freezing.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! This recipe works well with most white fish varieties, such as cod, tilapia, snapper, or haddock.
Can I make this dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative. You can still achieve a rich flavor!
What can I serve with this fish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light tomato and arugula salad, steamed vegetables, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
Can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the fish after cooking and let the sauce simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
Conclusion
This Pan-Seared Fish Fillet with Lemon Butter Sauce is a fantastic choice for a healthy, quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The buttery lemon sauce, with a touch of capers, enhances the delicate taste of the fish for a meal that feels elegant and satisfying. Enjoy this dish with a fresh salad, and treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home!
