Lemon Garlic Butter Fish Fillets

Ingredients

• 4 white fish fillets, such as cod, tilapia, or haddock
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 2 lemons, zested
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• lemon slices
• extra parsley, optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Season the FilletsPat the fish dry with paper towels so it can sear cleanly. Rub the fillets with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.Cue: The surface should look lightly coated and dry, not wet or slick.

2. 2

   Sear Until FlakyWarm a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish and gently sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden on the outside and tender in the center. Transfer the fillets to a plate and keep them warm.Cue: The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid pressing it hard while it cooks so it stays tender.

3. 3

   Bloom the GarlicIn the same skillet, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and stir for 1 to 2 minutes, just until fragrant and softened without browning too deeply.Cue: The garlic should smell fragrant and look lightly softened, not dark brown.

4. 4

   Brighten the SauceStir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley. Let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, until it turns glossy and lightly thickened.Cue: The sauce should look shiny and spoonable, with tiny bubbles around the edges.

5. 5

   Finish and ServeReturn the fish to the pan or arrange it on plates. Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce generously over the fillets, then finish with lemon slices and extra parsley before serving hot.Cue: Serve right away while the fish is moist and the sauce is glossy.