Looking for a delicious way to prepare fish? This recipe for Easy Lemon Butter Baked Fish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that is both healthy and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 fillets of white fish (such as tilapia, cod, or halibut)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Prepare the fish fillets: Pat them dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the lemon butter sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Pour the sauce over the fish: Drizzle the lemon butter mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
- Bake the fish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the fish from the oven. Garnish with lemon slices and additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot: Plate the fish fillets and spoon any remaining lemon butter sauce from the baking dish over the top. Serve immediately, accompanied by your favorite side dishes like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Success:
- Choosing the fish: Opt for firm, white fish fillets that are about 1-inch thick for best results. They cook evenly and hold the flavors well.
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest citrus flavor. Fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch to the dish.
- Baking time: Adjust the baking time based on the thickness of your fish fillets. Thinner fillets may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Customization: Feel free to add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like.
This Easy Lemon Butter Baked Fish recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s simple enough to whip up on short notice yet elegant enough to impress guests. Enjoy the tender, flaky fish infused with tangy lemon and buttery goodness—it’s a delightful dish that promises to please everyone at the table.