Ah, baked fish with lemon butter – a classic dish that never goes out of style. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night. The recipe’s simplicity allows the fish’s freshness and the lemon’s bright zing to shine genuinely.
This recipe is a staple in my kitchen. It’s my go-to for busy weeknights when I need a healthy and flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser – even pickier eaters love the buttery lemon sauce.
Fresh is Best
One tip I learned from my grandmother, a phenomenal home cook, is to never underestimate the power of fresh ingredients. When it comes to fish, quality truly matters. Look for firm fillets with a glistening sheen and a mild, pleasant scent.
Ingredients for A Simple Lemon Butter Baked Fish
- 1 ½ lb white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia work well)
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley for serving
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Spoon
- Baking sheet
Instruction for A Simple Lemon Butter Baked Fish
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you like, line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps ensure the lemon butter sauce will stick nicely. Season both sides of the fish with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the cubed butter over the fish and drizzle with the lemon juice.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Don’t overcook, or your fish will become dry.
Serving
This recipe yields 4-6 servings, depending on the size of your fillets.
The Perfect Pairings:
- While this baked fish is delicious on its own, here are some side dish ideas to complete your meal:
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini
- Fluffy mashed or roasted potatoes
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
A Final Note
This recipe is a fantastic foundation for exploration! Feel free to add a sprinkle of your favorite dried herbs, such as thyme or oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish?
Absolutely! Any firm white fish fillet will work well in this recipe. Some popular options include cod, haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
No worries! You can substitute dried parsley in a pinch. Use about 1/2 teaspoon.
How can I tell if my fish is cooked through?
The best way to check is to flake the fish with a fork gently. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it’s done.
This recipe brings a little sunshine to your kitchen table. If you have any questions, comment below; I’ll be happy to help. Now, grab your freshest ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal!