Lemon Butter Fish Fillet
Weight Watchers Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a delicious, refreshing, and satisfying dish that fits perfectly into a low points.
For the Fish:
4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Fish:
Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Cook the Fish:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Preparing the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add Lemon and Seasoning: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Place the cooked fish fillets on a serving platter.
Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the fish fillets.
Garnish with lemon slices and additional chopped parsley.
Variations
For a tangier twist, try adding a splash of white wine or capers to the lemon butter sauce.
The wine will enhance the depth of flavor, while capers bring a briny, slightly acidic note that pairs wonderfully with the fish.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon of light cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a richer texture without adding too many extra calories.
If you’re looking for a different protein, this lemon butter sauce works beautifully with shrimp or chicken.
Simply adjust the cooking time based on the protein—shrimp will cook in just a few minutes, while chicken breasts may need a bit longer.
You can also swap the white fish for salmon for a heartier option, though keep in mind that salmon has a stronger flavor that will slightly alter the dish’s overall taste.
For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, serve the fish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad instead of rice or pasta.
Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or crushed almonds on top can provide extra texture and flavor while keeping the dish light and nutritious.
Tips
To ensure the fish cooks evenly, make sure the fillets are of similar thickness. If one end is much thicker, you can gently pound it with a meat mallet or slice it horizontally to create an even piece.
This prevents overcooking the thinner parts while waiting for the thicker section to cook through.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the fish. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid steaming the fillets instead of searing them.
A good sear locks in moisture and gives the fish a delicious golden crust. If the fish sticks to the pan, let it cook a little longer before flipping—it will release naturally when ready.
Fresh lemon juice and zest make a significant difference in this dish. Bottled lemon juice can taste flat, while fresh lemons provide a bright, vibrant flavor.
If you don’t have fresh parsley, other herbs like dill, thyme, or chives can work as substitutes, each adding their own unique touch to the dish.
How to Store
Leftover lemon butter fish fillets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to prevent the fish from becoming rubbery.
The sauce may separate slightly when reheated, but a quick stir will help bring it back together.
If you want to prepare the fish in advance, you can season the fillets and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
However, the lemon butter sauce is best made fresh, as reheating can alter its texture and flavor. If you must make it ahead, store it separately and warm it gently before serving.
For longer storage, cooked fish can be frozen for up to one month, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Freeze the fillets and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the lemon flavor may intensify over time, so you may want to adjust the seasoning when serving.
Conclusion
This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a simple yet elegant dish that brings bright, fresh flavors to the table while keeping things light and healthy. The combination of zesty lemon, rich butter, and aromatic garlic creates a sauce that perfectly complements the tender, flaky fish. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers or just looking for a nutritious meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
With its versatility and ease of preparation, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or even casual entertaining. By experimenting with different herbs, proteins, or sides, you can make it your own while still enjoying a meal that feels indulgent yet balanced. Serve it with your favorite vegetables or grains, and enjoy a taste of freshness in every bite.
Enjoy!