Baked Fish in Lemon Butter Sauce
Baked Fish in Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the tender, flaky texture of perfectly baked fish with the zesty, creamy richness of lemon butter sauce. This culinary creation is perfect for those seeking a meal that is both light and flavorful, making it a favorite for dinner parties or a cozy night in. The combination of lemon’s brightness with the smooth, indulgent butter sauce creates a harmony of flavors that perfectly complements the natural taste of the fish.
Baked Fish in Lemon Butter Sauce not only tantalizes the taste buds but is also a visually appealing meal that promises to impress. It’s relatively simple to prepare, yet the result is undeniably gourmet, offering a satisfying experience that leans towards the healthier side of dining. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe guides you through creating a meal that’s sure to be remembered.
Ingredients:
- 4 fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Step-wise Process:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
- Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers. Cook for an additional 1 minute, then remove from heat.
- Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the fish fillets in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Sprinkle the baked fish with chopped parsley and arrange lemon slices on top for garnish before serving.
Number of Servings:
- Serves 4.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Important Points:
- Ensure your fish fillets are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Do not overcook the fish; it should be moist and flaky.
- Adjust the lemon juice and zest according to your taste preference for more or less tanginess.
- If you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the amount of salt used and the capers’ contribution.
How to Serve Baked Fish in Lemon Butter Sauce:
Serve the baked fish immediately while hot, with the sauce spooned over the top. It pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of quinoa or rice to absorb the delicious lemon butter sauce.
To Sum Up…
Baked Fish in Lemon Butter Sauce is a sublime dish that effortlessly combines healthful eating with luxurious taste. Its simple preparation belies the depth of flavor achieved, making it a versatile option for any day of the week. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy a meal that feels indulgent yet is wholly satisfying, striking the perfect balance between elegance and ease.
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