Zesty, flaky, and oh-so-versatile, white fish is the unsung hero of easy oven dinners. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend feast, these 18 delicious recipes have you covered. From simple lemon-herb fillets to crispy parmesan-crusted delights, get ready to discover your new favorite way to bake fish. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering oven-baked creations!
Baked Lemon Herb White Fish
Ever feel intimidated by cooking fish? This baked lemon herb white fish is a foolproof, flavorful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Essentially, you’ll coat mild white fish fillets in a bright, herby mixture and bake them until flaky.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the fish and seasoning:
– 4 (6-ounce) white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut), patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the lemon herb topping:
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the patted-dry fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet. (Tip: Patting the fish dry ensures the seasoning sticks and promotes better browning.)
3. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the top of each fillet.
4. Sprinkle the 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper evenly over the oiled fillets.
5. In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of melted butter, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of thyme leaves, and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest. Stir well.
6. Spoon the lemon herb butter mixture evenly over the top of each seasoned fish fillet, coating them completely.
7. Bake the fish in the preheated 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes. (Tip: The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.)
8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the fish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. (Tip: Letting it rest allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist.)
Ultimately, you’ll have tender, flaky fish with a vibrant, buttery sauce. The fresh herbs and lemon provide a bright, aromatic flavor that isn’t overpowering. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of quinoa or alongside roasted asparagus to soak up the delicious pan juices.
Garlic Butter Baked White Fish
Mastering a simple baked fish dish can elevate your weeknight dinners, and this garlic butter version delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Many home cooks find white fish intimidating, but this recipe breaks it down into foolproof steps that ensure a moist, flaky result every time.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the fish:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), about 6 ounces each
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the garlic butter sauce:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the fish fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
3. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle evenly with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
4. Season both sides of each fillet evenly with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
5. Bake the fish in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
6. While the fish bakes, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
7. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned.
8. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley.
9. After 10 minutes of baking, carefully remove the fish from the oven.
10. Spoon the prepared garlic butter sauce evenly over each fish fillet, coating them completely.
11. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
12. Transfer the baked fish to serving plates using a spatula, pouring any remaining sauce from the pan over the top.
Outstandingly tender and infused with rich garlic butter, this fish develops a beautiful golden hue while staying remarkably moist inside. The lemon juice cuts through the butter’s richness perfectly, creating a balanced sauce that begs to be sopped up with crusty bread or spooned over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Oven-Roasted White Fish with Tomatoes
Now, let’s make a simple, flavorful oven-roasted white fish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender fish with juicy tomatoes and aromatic herbs for a fuss-free meal that feels special. You’ll need just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes from start to finish.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the fish and vegetables:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), about 6 ounces each
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 lemon, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and black pepper
For the seasoning:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they roast evenly and don’t steam.
3. Place the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between them.
4. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
5. Rub the garlic-oregano mixture evenly over both sides of each fish fillet.
6. Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and lemon slices around the fish on the baking sheet.
7. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the tomatoes and lemon slices, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the tomatoes are slightly blistered.
9. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top.
10. Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
The fish comes out flaky and moist, with the tomatoes adding a sweet, tangy burst that complements the savory herbs. Serve it over a bed of quinoa or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices for a complete, satisfying meal.
Spicy Cajun Baked White Fish
Haven’t you ever craved a restaurant-quality seafood dinner that’s surprisingly simple to make at home? This Spicy Cajun Baked White Fish delivers bold, comforting flavors with minimal fuss, perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels special. Let’s walk through each step together to ensure your success.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Fish
– 4 (6-ounce) white fish fillets, such as cod or tilapia
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Cajun Spice Blend
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the 4 white fish fillets completely dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere better.
3. In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to make the Cajun spice blend.
4. Brush the top of each dried fish fillet evenly with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
5. Sprinkle the Cajun spice blend generously over the oiled tops of the fillets, using all of the mixture.
6. In another small bowl, mix 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
7. Gently press the panko mixture onto the seasoned tops of the fish fillets to form a crust.
8. Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the fish rest for 3 minutes before serving.
During baking, the panko crust becomes wonderfully crisp, contrasting with the tender, flaky fish beneath. The Cajun spices create a warm, smoky heat that’s balanced by the fresh parsley. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of creamy grits or with a simple side of roasted vegetables to soak up any flavorful juices.
Parmesan Crusted White Fish
Gathering ingredients for a simple yet impressive dinner? This Parmesan crusted white fish is a weeknight lifesaver that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Get ready for a flaky, tender fish topped with a golden, savory crust that’s both crispy and cheesy.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the fish:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), 6 ounces each
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the crust:
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the fish fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure the crust adheres properly.
3. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle evenly with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
4. Season both sides of the fillets with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
5. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon dried parsley until the mixture resembles wet sand.
6. Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent proper browning.
7. Divide the Parmesan mixture evenly among the fillets, pressing it firmly onto the top of each one to create a compact layer.
8. Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
9. Tip: For extra crispiness, broil the fish for the final 1-2 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
10. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
11. Tip: Use a thin metal spatula for serving to keep the delicate crust intact when transferring to plates.
Perfectly baked, this dish offers a delightful contrast between the moist, flaky fish and the crunchy, umami-rich Parmesan crust. The garlic and parsley subtly enhance the savory notes without overpowering the delicate white fish. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted asparagus or a simple lemon-dressed arugula salad to complement the rich flavors.
Mediterranean Oven-Baked White Fish
Crafting a simple yet elegant fish dish doesn’t require fancy techniques, just fresh ingredients and a hot oven. This Mediterranean-inspired baked white fish delivers bright, herby flavors with minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Let’s walk through each step together to ensure perfect results.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Fish & Pan
– 4 (6-ounce) skinless white fish fillets (such as cod or halibut)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping
– 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, roughly chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons capers, drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the 4 fish fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly instead of steaming.
3. Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with the 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Place the dried fillets in the prepared dish in a single layer, not touching.
5. Sprinkle the fillets evenly with the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
6. In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup chopped olives, 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 tablespoons capers, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons parsley, and 1 tablespoon oregano.
7. Spoon the topping mixture evenly over the top of each fish fillet, pressing gently to help it adhere.
8. Bake the dish on the middle rack of the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
9. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the fish rest for 3 minutes before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute for a moister result.
When baked, the fish becomes tender and flaky, contrasting beautifully with the briny, tangy topping. Serve it directly from the baking dish over a bed of couscous or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices, creating a complete Mediterranean meal.
Honey Mustard Glazed White Fish
Many home cooks hesitate to prepare fish, but this honey mustard glazed white fish recipe simplifies the process with a sweet and tangy sauce that caramelizes beautifully. Mastering this dish requires just a few pantry staples and about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy yet impressive.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the fish:
– 4 white fish fillets (6 oz each), such as cod or tilapia
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the glaze:
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the fish fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure even cooking and better browning.
3. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season evenly with salt and black pepper.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth.
5. Spoon the glaze generously over each fish fillet, using the back of the spoon to spread it evenly across the surface.
6. Bake the fish for 12-15 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. For extra caramelization, broil the fish on high for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the fish rest for 3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Resulting in tender, flaky fish with a glossy, slightly sticky glaze that balances sweet honey with tangy mustard. Serve it over a bed of quinoa or roasted vegetables for a complete meal, or flake it into tacos with cabbage slaw for a fun twist.
Oven-Baked White Fish with Dill and Lemon
Baking white fish in the oven is one of the simplest, most foolproof ways to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dinner. This method, featuring bright lemon and fresh dill, locks in moisture and creates a light, aromatic dish that comes together with minimal effort. Let’s walk through each step to ensure perfect results every time.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Fish and Seasoning:
– 4 (6-ounce) white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Herb and Lemon Topping:
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
– 1 lemon, thinly sliced into 8 rounds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the center.
2. Pat the 4 white fish fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and prevent steaming.
3. Place the dried fillets on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil.
4. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil evenly over the top of each fillet.
5. Sprinkle the 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper evenly over all the fillets.
6. Arrange 2 thin lemon slices on top of each seasoned fish fillet.
7. Evenly scatter the 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill over the lemon slices and fish.
8. Dot the top of each assembled fillet with the small pieces of 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
9. Bake the fish in the preheated 400°F oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the fillets are opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork. A tip: Thicker fillets may need the full 15 minutes, while thinner ones could be done at 12.
10. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the fish rest for 3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Gently flaky and infused with the citrusy aroma of lemon and the subtle, grassy notes of dill, this baked fish is both light and satisfying. The butter and olive oil create a simple, silky sauce in the pan that’s perfect for drizzling over the fish or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a crisp salad or over a bed of fluffy quinoa to soak up all the delicious juices.
Crispy Panko-Crusted White Fish
Mastering a perfectly crispy fish fillet at home is easier than you think with this panko-crusted method. Many home cooks shy away from frying fish, but this recipe breaks it down into simple, foolproof steps that guarantee a golden, crunchy exterior and flaky interior every time. Let’s get started with the basics you’ll need to create this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the fish:
– 4 white fish fillets (6 oz each), such as cod or tilapia
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the coating station:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
For frying:
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
1. Pat the 4 white fish fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres properly.
2. Season both sides of each fillet evenly with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
3. Set up a coating station with three shallow dishes: place 1/2 cup all-purpose flour in the first dish.
4. In the second dish, whisk 2 large eggs until fully combined and frothy.
5. In the third dish, mix 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs with 1/2 tsp garlic powder and 1/2 tsp paprika.
6. Dredge one fish fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess to prevent clumping.
7. Dip the floured fillet into the egg mixture, coating it completely and letting excess drip off.
8. Press the fillet firmly into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
9. Place the coated fillet on a wire rack and repeat steps 6-8 with the remaining 3 fillets.
10. Heat 1/2 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F on a thermometer.
11. Carefully place 2 coated fillets in the hot oil without crowding the pan.
12. Fry for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown, then flip using tongs.
13. Fry the second side for another 3-4 minutes until uniformly golden and crispy.
14. Transfer the cooked fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
15. Repeat steps 11-14 with the remaining 2 fillets, maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F.
Achieving that satisfying crunch comes from the panko’s light texture, which stays crispier than traditional breadcrumbs. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the mild fish flavor beautifully, or try serving it over a bed of tangy slaw for contrasting textures. This versatile dish pairs equally well with roasted vegetables or tucked into soft buns for a gourmet fish sandwich.
Garlic and Herb Infused Baked White Fish
Gently baking white fish with garlic and herbs transforms simple fillets into a moist, flavorful main dish that’s both healthy and impressive. This method ensures the fish stays tender while the aromatic topping infuses every bite, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Follow these clear steps to achieve perfectly cooked fish every time.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the fish and seasoning:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), 6 ounces each
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the garlic and herb topping:
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For baking:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Pat the 4 white fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the seasoning stick and promotes even browning.
3. Place the dried fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper evenly over both sides of the fillets.
5. In a small bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, stirring until well mixed.
6. Spoon the garlic and herb butter mixture evenly over the top of each fish fillet, covering them completely.
7. Bake the fish in the preheated 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fillets are opaque and flake easily with a fork, checking at the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the fish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Resulting in a flaky, tender texture with a rich, buttery garlic and herb flavor that’s brightened by the lemon. Serve it over a bed of quinoa or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal, or flake it into tacos with a squeeze of lime for a fun twist.
Simple Oven-Baked White Fish Fillets
Wondering how to make a healthy, fuss-free dinner that feels special? This oven-baked white fish is your answer—it’s a straightforward method that yields tender, flaky fillets every time, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without the hassle.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
– For the fish: 4 (6-ounce) white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
– For the seasoning: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1 lemon
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispier finish.
3. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle evenly with 1 tbsp olive oil.
4. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme.
5. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each fillet, rubbing gently to adhere.
6. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice from one half over the seasoned fillets.
7. Bake the fish in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
9. Slice the remaining lemon half into wedges for serving.
Generously flaky and subtly seasoned, these fillets boast a moist interior with a hint of citrus brightness. Try them over a bed of quinoa with steamed vegetables for a complete meal, or flake the leftovers into tacos the next day for a quick lunch twist.
Savory Lemon Pepper White Fish
Ready to master a simple yet impressive seafood dish? Savory Lemon Pepper White Fish combines bright citrus, bold pepper, and flaky fish for a quick, healthy meal that feels restaurant-worthy. This methodical guide will walk you through each step to ensure perfect results every time.
Serving: 4 | Pre Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the fish:
– 4 white fish fillets (6 oz each), such as cod or tilapia
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp kosher salt
For the seasoning:
– 2 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
– 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
For finishing:
– ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Pat the 4 white fish fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp sear.
2. Rub 2 tbsp olive oil evenly over both sides of each fillet, then sprinkle with 1 tsp kosher salt.
3. In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp lemon zest, 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper, and 2 minced garlic cloves to make the seasoning mix.
4. Press the seasoning mix firmly onto the top side of each fillet, coating it evenly.
5. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until a drop of water sizzles immediately, about 2 minutes.
6. Place the fillets seasoning-side down in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes to form a golden crust.
7. Flip the fillets carefully using a spatula and cook for another 3–4 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
8. Transfer the cooked fillets to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
9. Reduce the skillet heat to medium-low and add ¼ cup fresh lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
10. Whisk in 2 tbsp unsalted butter until melted and the sauce slightly thickens, about 1 minute.
11. Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, then pour the sauce over the plated fish.
Flaky and tender, the fish pairs the zesty lemon-pepper crust with a rich, buttery sauce that clings to each bite. For a creative twist, serve it over a bed of quinoa or roasted asparagus to soak up the extra sauce, making it a complete, vibrant meal.
Conclusion
Gathering these 18 oven-baked white fish recipes offers a treasure trove of easy, healthy dinners. We hope you find inspiration to try a new dish this week! Share your favorite in the comments below and pin this roundup on Pinterest to save for later. Happy cooking!
