Introduction

Have you ever wondered why so many people shy away from cooking fish at home? The truth is, preparing fish can be incredibly simple, especially with the right recipe. Today, we’re diving into an easy baked fish with lemon garlic butter recipe that can transform your dinner routine into a gourmet experience without the complexity. Best of all, this dish can be ready in less than 30 minutes, saving you crucial time in the kitchen while delivering irresistible flavors that will have your family coming back for more.

Ingredients List

To create our delectable baked fish with lemon garlic butter, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 fish fillets (such as salmon, tilapia, or cod)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Substitution tips: You can swap regular butter with olive oil for a lighter option or use herbs like thyme or dill for added flavor.

Timing

This recipe is designed for efficiency, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal even on the busiest nights. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

To put this into context, this recipe takes 20% less time than the average fish recipe, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked fish, flaky on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of olive oil. This prevents the fish from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix the Lemon Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and the juice of half the lemon. This mixture is what will elevate your fish to a new level of flavor.

Step 4: Season the Fish

Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Generously season with salt and pepper, ensuring each fillet is well-coated.

Step 5: Apply the Lemon Garlic Butter

Drizzle the lemon garlic butter mixture over the fish, making sure it’s evenly distributed for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 6: Bake the Fish

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a closer look at the nutritional content of your delicious meal:

This fish dish is not only tasty but also a source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting overall health.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to customize this dish for a healthier twist? Here are some modifications:

• Use olive oil instead of butter to reduce saturated fats.
• Add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to the baking dish for extra nutrients.
• For a low-carb alternative, serve with steamed veggies instead of rice or potatoes.

These swaps ensure that you can enjoy the essence of this dish while aligning it with your dietary goals.

Serving Suggestions

To make your easy baked fish even more delightful, consider the following serving suggestions:

• Pair your fish with a vibrant mixed green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve with quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome side option.
• For a touch of elegance, add seasonal roasted vegetables.

These simple yet effective options will enhance your dining experience and impress your guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some typical pitfalls people encounter when making this recipe, along with tips to steer clear of them:

• Not preheating the oven: Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature for even cooking.
• Overcooking the fish: Keep a close eye on the cooking time; fish can turn dry quickly if left in the oven too long.
• Using frozen fish: Make sure to fully thaw your fish before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Avoiding these pitfalls will help you achieve a perfect baked fish each time.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers or want to prep in advance, here are some effective storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover baked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, vacuum seal individual portions and freeze them for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: When reheating, do so gently in the oven to maintain texture, rather than using a microwave.

These practices will help keep your dish fresh and flavorful for longer.

Conclusion

In summary, this easy baked fish with lemon garlic butter is an irresistible dish that can brighten any weeknight meal. Its quick preparation, delightful flavors, and health benefits make it a standout choice for busy cooks. Don’t forget to try it out! Share your experiences and feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delightful recipes and updates.

FAQs

A: What type of fish is best for baking?

While salmon, tilapia, and cod are great choices due to their flaky texture and flavor, you can also experiment with other fish types like halibut or snapper.

B: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Dried herbs like basil, dill, or oregano can be used in place of fresh herbs, though the flavor may vary slightly. Use about one-third of the amount compared to fresh herbs.

C: Is it necessary to use lemon juice?

Lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps tenderize the fish. However, you can substitute it with lime juice or even vinegar for a different twist.

D: What is the best way to tell when the fish is cooked?

The fish is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. A food thermometer can also help, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

E: Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the fish and lemon garlic butter in advance, store them separately in the refrigerator, and assemble before baking, which makes it a great meal prep option.

Savory Easy Baked Fish w/ Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe

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• Author: jamal
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Discover a delightful way to prepare fish with our easy baked recipe featuring zesty lemon garlic butter. Perfect for weeknight dinners! (149 chars)

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

4 fish fillets (such as salmon, tilapia, or cod)

4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 lemon (zest and juice)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and juice of half the lemon.

Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Drizzle the lemon garlic butter mixture over the fish evenly.

Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Transform your dinner routine with this easy baked fish recipe featuring lemon garlic butter, ready in under 30 minutes.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 0g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 24g