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Lemon Sauce for Fish – Easy 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner

Lemon Sauce for Fish – Easy 20-Minute Weeknight Dinner


  • Author: easysweetmeal
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Flaky white fish in a bright, buttery lemon-garlic sauce—ready in 20 minutes! Easy, healthy, and tastes like a restaurant meal


Ingredients

  • 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or tilapia)

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

  • Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  • Prepare the Fish
    Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

  • Sear the Fish
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add fish fillets and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and flaky. Remove and set aside on a plate.

  • Make the Sauce
    In the same pan, reduce heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  • Add the Flavor Base
    Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, broth, and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.

  • Finish the Sauce
    Add chopped parsley and stir well. Return the cooked fish to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each fillet to coat.

  • Garnish and Serve
    Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of extra parsley, if desired.

Notes

This simple lemon sauce works with more than just fish—try it on shrimp, chicken breasts, or grilled veggies for a light and zesty finish.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Method: Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: American