Tender pan-seared halibut fillets are finished with a rich, nutty brown butter and fresh lemon sauce for a quick, elegant meal. This simple recipe delivers bright flavor in just 15 minutes.
Author:Emily
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:15 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Pan Fry
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
4 (6-oz) halibut fillets (1.5 lb total)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup salted butter
1 medium lemon, cut in half
Instructions
Pat the halibut fillets completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes.
Add the halibut in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Sear without moving for 3-4 minutes until the edges are opaque. Flip and cook for 2-4 minutes more until cooked through.
Transfer the fish to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the butter to the same pan and let it melt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fragrant.
Squeeze the juice from both lemon halves into the pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until reduced by about half.
Drizzle a little lemon butter sauce onto each serving plate. Place the halibut on top and spoon additional sauce over the fish before serving.
Notes
Patting the fish dry helps achieve a golden crust.
Do not overcook the halibut; it should flake easily with a fork.
Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.