Lemon Butter Fish

Dec 31 2025

I used Halibut, but you can use any firm white fish like cod or tilapia.

Ingredients

• 2 Lbs Halibut or other white fish
• 1⁄4 Cup Butter
• Juice and zest of 1 Lemon
• 1 Tsp Kosher Salt
• 2 Tsp Paprika
• 2 Tsp Garlic Powder
• 2 Tsp Onion Powder
• 1⁄2 Tsp Black Pepper
• Butter

Steps

1. Use paper towels to pat the fish dry. Sprinkle with a very small amount of salt. Making the fish dry will help it develop a crust rather than steam.
2. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, zest, and 1⁄2 teaspoon of salt.
3. In another bowl, combine remaining 1⁄2 Tsp of salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
4. Sprinkle the fish with the spice mixture and rub it in on both sides.
5. In a large pan, heat up a pan until hot (med to med-high heat). Add a knob of butter and melt. It should brown fairly quickly.
6. Add 2 fish fillets to the pan and cook each side until the fish just becomes opaque, feels firm in the center, and is browned. About 2-3 minutes per side depending on thickness. Lightly drizzle some of the lemon butter while the fish cooks (both sides). Take care to not overcook.
7. Season with extra salt and pepper and brush with more lemon butter if desired.