Lemon Butter Fish Fillet – Don’t Lose This Recipe!

### **Instructions**

1. **Prepare the Fish:** Start by patting the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This will ensure they sear nicely in the pan. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. **Heat the Pan:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the fish fillets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done.

3. **Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:** Once the fish is cooked and removed from the skillet, lower the heat to medium. In the same pan, add the butter. Let it melt, swirling the pan to coat the bottom with the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

4. **Add Lemon:** Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well. You’ll notice the sauce will start to bubble and thicken slightly. This will add a fresh, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the butter.

5. **Return Fish to Pan:** Once the sauce is ready, carefully return the fish fillets to the pan. Spoon some of the lemon butter sauce over the fish to coat it and allow it to absorb the flavors. Let it simmer for about 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

6. **Garnish and Serve:** Once the fish fillets are nicely coated in the lemon butter sauce, remove them from the skillet. Place them on serving plates, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrus if desired.

### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**

– **Quick and Easy:** This recipe is ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– **Light Yet Satisfying:** The fish is light and delicate but the buttery sauce adds richness without making it heavy.
– **Flavorful:** The bright lemon zest and juice paired with the savory garlic and butter elevate the taste of the fish, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
– **Versatile:** You can pair this dish with virtually anything—serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

### **Health Benefits**
– **Rich in Omega-3s:** Fish fillets are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cognitive function.
– **High in Protein:** Fish is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
– **Low in Calories:** This dish is light in calories while still offering a satisfying meal, making it perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.

### **Variations to Try**
– **Add Herbs:** While parsley is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme, basil, or dill to bring extra flavors to the dish.
– **Spice it Up:** If you prefer a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter sauce.
– **Use Different Fish:** Cod, tilapia, and halibut work well with this recipe, but you can also try it with salmon or even trout for a different taste and texture.

### **Conclusion**
The **Lemon Butter Fish Fillet** is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on hand because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have a flavorful, heart-healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The zesty lemon and rich butter sauce elevate the fish without overwhelming its delicate taste, making it a dish that will quickly become a favorite. Don’t lose this recipe—it’s a keeper!