Sauteed Fish with Butter, Lemon

Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

History

This recipe has been a favorite among seafood lovers for centuries. The combination of butter and lemon has long been used to enhance the natural flavors of fish, creating a dish that is both elegant and delicious.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Heat a sauté pan over medium heat for 1 minute, then add a couple of tablespoons of clarified butter.
Season the fish fillet with Kosher salt and a small amount of ground white pepper.
Lightly dredge the fish in flour and shake off any excess.
Gently place the floured fillet into the hot pan. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until it turns golden-brown, then carefully flip it over. Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes or until this side is also golden-brown.
Remove the fish from the pan and place it on a warm plate.
Add a chunk of whole butter to the pan and swirl it around. Cook until it turns slightly brown.
Now add a few tablespoons of lemon juice and some chopped parsley to the hot butter. Cook for a few seconds, allowing it to bubble slightly, then pour it onto the fish and serve immediately. Garnish with a thin slice of lemon if desired.

Variations

Add capers or olives to the butter and lemon sauce for a briny and tangy twist.
Substitute the parsley with fresh dill or chives for a different flavor profile.
Use a different type of fish, such as salmon or halibut, for a variation on this classic dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use clarified butter for sauteing the fish, as it has a higher smoke point and imparts a rich, nutty flavor.

- Be sure to season the fish fillets generously with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance their natural flavors.

- When dredging the fish in flour, be sure to shake off any excess to prevent the coating from becoming too thick.

- Cook the fish fillets over medium heat to ensure that they cook evenly and develop a golden-brown crust.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a perfect dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Sauteing the fish in clarified butter helps to create a crispy and golden-brown crust while imparting a rich and nutty flavor. Be sure to cook the fish fillets over medium heat to ensure that they cook evenly and develop a delicious texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have clarified butter, you can use regular butter or olive oil for sauteing the fish.

- Feel free to use any type of white fish fillets for this recipe, such as cod, haddock, or tilapia.

- Substitute the lemon juice with white wine or vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the clarified butter and season the fish fillets in advance to save time when cooking. Store the seasoned fish in the refrigerator until ready to cook, then follow the recipe as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a thin slice of lemon for a beautiful presentation. Serve it on a warm plate with a side of vegetables for a visually appealing meal.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity of the wine complements the rich butter and tangy lemon flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the fish in a saute pan over low heat until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it may become dry.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal that is perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner.

Carbohydrates

This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon is a rich source of healthy fats, with each serving containing approximately 15 grams of fat. The butter adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the dish.

Proteins

This dish is a great source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making this dish a nutritious option for a balanced diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lemon juice and parsley. These nutrients help support the immune system and promote overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in protein and healthy fats. It is low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising their dietary goals.

Summary

Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon is a classic dish that is simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. The combination of tender fish, rich butter, and tangy lemon creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this dish with a side of steamed vegetables and a glass of white wine for a perfect dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Sauteed Fish with Butter and Lemon. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small coastal town. My grandmother, a renowned cook in our community, had invited me to watch her prepare this dish for a special family dinner.

As I stood in the kitchen, watching my grandmother expertly handle the fresh fish fillets with such grace and precision, I was in awe of her culinary skills. She moved with a rhythm and confidence that came only from years of practice and experience. Her hands worked like magic, effortlessly turning simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece.

I could see the love and care she put into every step of the recipe. From the way she seasoned the fish with just the right amount of salt and pepper, to the way she delicately dredged it in flour before placing it in a hot skillet with melted butter. The sizzle of the fish as it hit the pan filled the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water.

As the fish cooked, my grandmother added a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, which instantly brightened the flavors and added a zesty kick to the dish. The combination of butter, lemon, and perfectly cooked fish was a revelation to me. I had never tasted anything so delicious before in my life.

When the fish was golden brown and flaky, my grandmother carefully removed it from the pan and placed it on a platter, garnishing it with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. The dish looked like a work of art, a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.

As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the sauteed fish with butter and lemon, and my taste buds were transported to a place of pure bliss. The fish was tender and succulent, with a rich buttery flavor that melted in my mouth. The tangy lemon added a refreshing brightness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the butter perfectly.

I couldn't believe that something so simple could be so incredibly delicious. From that moment on, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I asked my grandmother to teach me how to make it, and she was more than happy to pass down her knowledge to me.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am proud to serve to guests and loved ones alike.

Every time I make sauteed fish with butter and lemon, I am reminded of that day in my grandmother's kitchen, watching her work her culinary magic. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills she imparted to me, and for the memories we created together over a shared love of cooking.

I may never be as skilled as my grandmother in the kitchen, but I will always cherish the lessons she taught me and the recipes she passed down to me. And whenever I make sauteed fish with butter and lemon, I will think of her and the joy she brought to my life through her delicious cooking.