Cooking fish at home can seem intimidating, especially if you’re aiming for a dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor. However, it doesn’t have to be difficult. This Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Fish recipe is perfect for anyone looking to prepare a delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to whip up a restaurant-quality dish in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
4 fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or salmon)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, sliced into rounds
1 lemon, juiced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the fish, allowing for even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. This will prevent the fish from sticking to the dish and make for an easier cleanup later. You can use a brush or a paper towel to spread the oil evenly across the dish.
Step 3: Season the Fish
Place the fish fillets in the baking dish, making sure they are arranged in a single layer. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly over the fillets. These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed. This sauce is the star of the dish, infusing the fish with a rich, tangy flavor.
Step 5: Pour the Sauce Over the Fish
Pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over the seasoned fish fillets, ensuring each fillet is well coated. The sauce will seep into the fish as it bakes, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful dish.
Step 6: Add Lemon Slices
Place the lemon slices over the fish fillets. The lemon slices not only add a burst of citrus flavor but also make the dish visually appealing. Plus, the baked lemon becomes slightly caramelized, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.
Step 7: Bake the Fish
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them as they cook.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the fish is cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the fillets for a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor. Serve the fish hot, garnished with additional lemon slices if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Fish
Choose Fresh Fish: Fresh fish will always yield the best results. Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a fresh sea smell. If fresh fish isn’t available, high-quality frozen fillets are a good alternative.
Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your preference. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Use Parchment Paper: For an even easier cleanup, line your baking dish with parchment paper before adding the fish and sauce. This will also help prevent the fish from sticking to the dish.
Experiment with Herbs: While parsley adds a lovely fresh flavor, you can experiment with other herbs such as dill, thyme, or basil to give the dish a different twist. Serving Suggestions
This Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Fish pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make for a healthy and colorful side dish.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve the fish over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the zesty fish.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to your meal.
Nutritional Benefits
This Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Fish recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
High in Protein: Fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fatty fish like salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
Vitamins and Minerals: Fish is a good source of important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium.
Conclusion
Making a delicious and healthy fish dish at home doesn’t have to be complicated. This Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Fish recipe is easy to follow, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender fish, tangy lemon, and savory garlic butter sauce, and take pride in serving a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Bon appétit!
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