Introduction
The Fantastic Lemon Butter Fillet is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that dance on your palate. This exquisite recipe transforms the humble cod into a gourmet meal that’s both simple to prepare and delightful to savor. With the zesty tang of lemon and the rich, comforting taste of butter, each bite is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with love. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises to elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 (4 ounce) fillets cod
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper
Directions
1️⃣ Oven Preparation: Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This step is crucial for achieving the perfect bake.
2️⃣ Butter Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the lemon juice, salt, black pepper, dried parsley, and minced garlic. Let the mixture come to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This concoction is the heart of our dish, infusing it with rich flavors.
3️⃣ Prepare Cod: Lay the cod fillets in a single layer on a baking sheet. This arrangement ensures each fillet cooks uniformly, absorbing the flavors evenly.
4️⃣ Seasoning: Generously drizzle half of the lemon butter mixture over the cod, making sure each piece is well-coated. Sprinkle lemon pepper over the fillets to introduce an additional layer of zest.
5️⃣ Baking: Cover the baking sheet with foil to seal in the moisture, ensuring the fillets emerge tender and juicy. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6️⃣ Serving: Unveil the baked fillets and lavish them with the remaining lemon butter sauce. This final flourish enhances the flavors and guarantees a moist, delectable finish.
Notes and Tips
- For an even more aromatic experience, consider adding fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- If cod is not your fish of choice, this recipe works wonderfully with other white fish like halibut or tilapia.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
Nutrition Details
- Serving: 1 fillet
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Vitamin C: 10% of the RDA
- Calcium: 2% of the RDA
- Iron: 5% of the RDA
Cod is a fantastic source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. The lemon not only adds a burst of flavor but also provides vitamin C, aiding in immunity and skin health.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the lemon butter mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Simply reheat gently before drizzling over the fish.
Q: How can I ensure my fish doesn’t dry out? A: The key is the foil cover during baking, which traps steam and keeps the fish moist. Also, avoid overcooking by checking the fish at the 15-minute mark.
Q: Are there any dairy-free alternatives to butter? A: For a dairy-free version, you can use a high-quality olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. Adjust the seasoning as needed to compensate for the flavor difference.
The Fantastic Lemon Butter Fillet is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that promises to delight your senses and nourish your body. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious and healthy meal, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your cooking repertoire.