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Lemon Herb Butter Halibut

This Lemon Herb Butter Halibut is a quick, fragrant, and comforting dish that is buttery with bright lemon notes, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Seafood
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pieces halibut fillets (6–8 oz each)
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter Helps control salt
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced Fresh garlic = bigger flavor
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice Brightens the sauce
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped Use fresh herbs when possible
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried) Simple variation: swap thyme for dill or add capers
  • pinch paprika or white pepper (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat fillets dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper; dryness gives a better sear.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high; then add olive oil and wait until it shimmers.
  3. Carefully lay halibut in the pan; you should hear a clear sizzle. Cook 4–5 minutes without moving.
  4. Flip the fillets and sear the other side for 4–5 minutes until edges turn golden and the fish flakes gently with a fork.
  5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat; add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not brown.
  6. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, thyme, and a pinch of paprika or white pepper if using; the sauce should smell bright and herbal.
  7. Drizzle the warm lemon herb butter over the cooked fillets and serve right away.

Notes

Use pre-minced garlic for a time-saver, but add it at the last second to avoid bitterness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crisp edges.