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This easy fish fillet with lemon sauce is a light yet comforting dish made with flaky white fish, garlic, lemon juice, and cream. Pan-fried to golden perfection and topped with a vibrant, zesty sauce, it’s a perfect dinner for any night of the week. Serve it with veggies, couscous, or rice for a complete meal.
Fish Fillet With lemon Sauce
A dish that marries the freshness of the sea with the zing of citrus, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.
Ingredients
Fish Fillet with Lemon Sauce
Instructions
Preparation
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Prepare the Fish Fillets
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper (and optionally a pinch of paprika).
Use any white fish fillets like tilapia or cod for this recipe. -
Coat the Fish Fillets
Lightly coat the seasoned fillets in flour, shaking off any excess.
This helps create a golden, crispy exterior when pan-fried.
Cooking the Fish
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Pan-Fry the Fish
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.
Making the Lemon Sauce
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Prepare the Sauce Base
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Be careful not to burn the garlic to avoid a bitter taste. -
Add Lemon Juice and Zest
Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest. Cook for 1 minute.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice works best for a vibrant flavor. -
Build the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer. If desired, whisk in 1 teaspoon of flour (or more) to slightly thicken the sauce.
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Finish with Cream
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy
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Plate the Fish
Place the cooked fish fillets on a serving platter. Spoon the warm lemon sauce over the top.
The tangy lemon sauce complements the crispy fish perfectly. -
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with sides like steamed vegetables, couscous, rice, or a crisp salad.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 340kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Cholesterol 110mg37%
- Sodium 300mg13%
- Potassium 420mg12%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 0.5g2%
- Sugars 1.5g
- Protein 28g57%
- Vitamin A 400 IU
- Vitamin C 12 mg
- Calcium 50 mg
- Iron 1.2 mg
- Phosphorus 280 mg
- Iodine 60 mcg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use fresh fish fillets like cod, tilapia, or sole for best results.
- Season the fish with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika before cooking.
- For the lemon sauce, combine butter, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of thyme in a saucepan.
- Cook the sauce over low heat until it thickens slightly, then pour over the cooked fish fillets.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve the fish fillets with lemon sauce hot with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or rice.
- Feel free to customize the sauce with herbs like dill or chives for added freshness.
Enjoy the Flavors
Indulge in the delicate dance of flavors as the tender fish fillet meets the zesty lemon sauce—a symphony of freshness and tanginess that will awaken your taste buds.
Serve with Style
Pair this dish with a side of fluffy couscous or a crisp garden salad to create a well-rounded meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Storage Tips
To preserve the freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain the texture and taste.
Join the Culinary Adventure
Embark on this culinary journey, savor each bite, and make it your own by adding personal touches. Share your experiences, tips, and questions to keep the culinary conversation alive and thriving.
Frequently Asked Questions
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
To prevent curdling, remove the sauce from heat before adding lemon juice and whisk continuously.
You can use any white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia for this dish.
The lemon sauce takes about 5-7 minutes to make, stirring constantly until it thickens.
Marinating is optional, but it can enhance the flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes for best results.
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Yes, you can make the lemon sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
