Imagine transforming ordinary fish fillets into a gourmet masterpiece with just a few simple ingredients and techniques. This Lemon and Brown Butter Fish recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-worthy meal that looks impressive but takes less than 20 minutes to prepare. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this French-inspired dish will elevate your culinary skills and have your dinner guests wondering how you created such a delectable plate of perfection.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia or sole)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia or sole), 1/4 cup of butter, the juice of 1 lemon, 2 cloves of minced garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme for garnish.
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear when cooking. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow it to cook until it starts to foam and turn a light golden brown, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
- Once the butter is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Gently place the seasoned fish fillets into the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the fillets are golden brown and release easily from the pan.
- Carefully flip the fish fillets over using a spatula. Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the fillets and continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the fish fillets to a serving platter.
- Drizzle the browned butter and garlic from the skillet over the fish fillets for added flavor.
- Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Pat fish fillets completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior
- Watch butter carefully when browning - it can quickly go from golden to burnt
- Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan for best results
- Choose firm white fish like tilapia or sole that can withstand quick cooking
- Don't overcrowd the pan - cook fillets in batches if necessary for even browning
- Fresh thyme is recommended, but dried herbs can work in a pinch
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the fish at its most tender and flavorful state
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 185kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
