Pan-Seared Fish Fillet – A Quick and Delicious Seafood Delight
Pan-searing is a fantastic way to cook fish fillets. It’s quick, easy, and brings out the natural flavors of the fish while creating a crispy, golden-brown crust. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a beginner in the kitchen, our recipe for Pan-Seared Fish Fillet will help you achieve restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your home. With a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can savor a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
For the Pan-Seared Fish:
- 4 fish fillets (about 6-8 ounces each), such as tilapia, trout, cod, or salmon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for garnish
For the Lemon Butter Sauce (optional):
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Pan-Seared Fish:
- Prep the Fish Fillets: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Searing the Fish: Carefully place the seasoned fish fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them. This allows the skin or surface to crisp up and develop a golden-brown color.
- Flipping the Fillets: Gently flip the fillets using a spatula. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. The exact cooking time depends on the thickness of the fillets. Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Lemon Garnish: During the last minute of cooking, add a squeeze of lemon juice over each fillet for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Serve: Transfer the pan-seared fish to a serving plate. Garnish with lemon wedges.
Lemon Butter Sauce (Optional):
- In a small saucepan, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Stir in the lemon juice, fresh chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This creates a simple lemon butter sauce.
- Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the pan-seared fish fillets just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Cook’s Notes:
- Fish Selection: You can use a variety of fish for this recipe, but make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets. Thicker fillets may require a bit more time.
- Crispy Skin: If your fish fillets have the skin on, ensure it’s scaled and patted dry before cooking. Searing the skin-side down first gives it a delightful crispiness.
- Serving: Pan-seared fish is excellent with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. It’s versatile and pairs well with many side dishes.
- Variations: Customize your seasoning by adding herbs or spices such as thyme, paprika, or cayenne for an extra flavor kick.
- Lemon Wedges: Serving with lemon wedges not only adds a bright, zesty flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
Pan-Seared Fish Fillet is a wonderful option for a quick and elegant meal. The crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior create a perfect balance, while the lemon butter sauce (if used) adds a touch of luxury. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish in the comfort of your home. 🐟🍽️
