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Zesty Lemon Pepper Fish Fillet

Best Zesty Lemon Pepper Fish Fillet Recipe for Juicy, Bold Flavor

A refreshing Zesty Lemon Pepper Fish Fillet recipe bursting with flavor, perfect for quick and healthy meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 2 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Fish
  • 4 pieces Fresh white fish fillets (cod or tilapia) choose flaky varieties for a tender texture
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon zest adds vibrant citrus brightness
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice balances richness with refreshing tartness
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly cracked) provides a bold zesty kick
  • 1 teaspoon Salt enhances natural flavors
For the Marinade
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil helps seasoning stick and keeps fish juicy
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) adds savory depth
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika offers a subtle smoky undertone
Optional Garnishes
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (chopped) for a pop of color
  • 2 pieces Lemon wedges for extra zing when serving

Equipment

  • nonstick skillet

Method
 

For the Marinade
  1. Combine Ingredients: whisk olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, and salt in a bowl until smooth and fragrant.
  2. Marinate Fillets: place fish in marinade, turn to coat, cover, and refrigerate 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
For Cooking
  1. Heat the Pan: warm a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until the oil shimmers lightly.
  2. Sear the Fish: lay fillets gently in pan, cook 3–4 minutes until golden brown and edges crisp.
  3. Flip & Finish: turn fillets carefully, cook another 2–3 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
  4. Serve & Garnish: plate fillets, sprinkle chopped parsley, add lemon wedges, and let rest 2 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 26gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Drizzle extra lemon juice over fillets for an added zing if desired.

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