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how to make lemon butter sauce for fish

Lemon Butter Sauce for Fish

This sophisticated yet simple lemon butter sauce is the perfect blend of rich, nutty browned butter with fresh lemon juice. It's ideal for enhancing the flavors of various fish and seafood dishes, transforming an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties, this versatile sauce comes together in just 15 minutes!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: French
Calories: 214
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 60 g / 4 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 white fish fillets (about 5-6 ounces each, skinless and boneless, such as cod or halibut)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp canola oil
  • 1 garlic clove (very finely minced)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, stirring occasionally. Let it gently simmer until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and pour into a bowl.
  2. Immediately stir in the lemon juice along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to keep warm.
  3. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels, then season them with salt and pepper. Dust both sides with flour, shaking off any excess.
  4. In a non-stick skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook on the other side for another 2-3 minutes, till fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
  5. Transfer the fish to serving plates and drizzle generously with the lemon butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

Nutrition Information Source: Data from USDA FoodData Central Values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.