🐟 Grilled Fish with Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
There’s something irresistible about the aroma of grilled fish sizzling over open heat — that smoky, savory perfume that promises a restaurant-quality meal in your own backyard. My Grilled Fish with Lemon Butter Sauce combines that delicious char with a velvety, citrus-infused sauce that melts right into every flaky bite.
This dish has quickly become a Her Recipe Box best seller, not just for its bright flavors, but for its simplicity and versatility. It’s light yet indulgent, quick enough for weeknights, and elegant enough to serve at dinner parties. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s one of those timeless recipes you’ll return to again and again.
📋 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
- ✅ High in protein, low in carbs, and naturally gluten-free.
- ✅ Versatile — works with salmon, tilapia, cod, or halibut.
- ✅ The lemon butter sauce is rich, balanced, and irresistible.
- ✅ Pairs beautifully with veggies, grains, or light salads.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
Every exceptional dish starts with quality ingredients. Choose the freshest fish and brightest lemons for the best results.
🐠 For the Grilled Fish:
- 4 fish fillets (6 oz each): Choose salmon for richness, cod for a mild taste, or halibut for a firm, flaky texture.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps sear the fish evenly and prevents sticking.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
🍋 For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter: Use high-quality or grass-fed butter for the creamiest texture.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Balances the butter with acidity.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a subtle aroma.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brings color and freshness to the dish.
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for perfect grilled fish every time — smoky outside, tender inside, and covered in a dreamy lemon butter glaze.
Step 1: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C). Lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
💡 Chef’s Tip: A properly preheated grill gives you that golden crust without drying out the fish.
Step 2: Prep the Fish
Pat the fillets dry with paper towels — moisture prevents a good sear.
Brush both sides with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Pro Tip: Always season right before grilling; salting too early can draw out moisture.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Place the fish fillets on the hot grill (skin-side down, if applicable).
Grill for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
🔥 Chef’s Insight: For salmon, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). The residual heat will finish the cooking perfectly.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t brown it).
Stir in the lemon zest and juice, simmering for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
🍋 Pro Tip: Add a splash of white wine for a gourmet flavor twist.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Place your freshly grilled fish on a serving platter.
Drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce generously over each fillet.
Garnish with extra parsley, a pinch of lemon zest, or thin lemon slices.
Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect harmony of smoky, buttery, and tangy flavors.
🧑🍳 Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Choose fresh fish: Always opt for fresh, firm fillets with a clean ocean scent.
- Control the heat: If the grill is too hot, the fish may burn before cooking through.
- Don’t move the fish too soon: Let it release naturally from the grates before flipping.
- Use a grill pan: Works beautifully indoors on a stovetop.
- Experiment with herbs: Dill, thyme, or chives are wonderful additions.
- Add zest last: A sprinkle at the end locks in the citrus fragrance.
🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 34 g |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on your chosen fish and portion size.
⏱️ Preparation & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
🍽️ How to Serve
This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with sides or light accompaniments.
🌿 Pairing Ideas
- Over a bed of garlic rice or quinoa pilaf.
- With roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli.
- Alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery couscous.
- Complement with a fresh garden salad and vinaigrette.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
🍷 Wine Pairing
Enjoy with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay.
For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling lemon-mint cooler.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in foil at 275°F (135°C) for 8–10 minutes.
- Freeze: For best results, store the fish separately from the sauce and consume within 1 month.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Overcooking — leads to dry, rubbery fish.
- ❌ Using cold fish straight from the fridge — always bring to room temperature first.
- ❌ Forgetting to oil the grill — the fillets will stick and tear.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes — just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before grilling.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version.
How do I prevent fish from sticking to the grill?
Oil both the grill grates and the fish, and don’t flip too early. The fish will naturally release once seared.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the lemon butter sauce up to a day ahead and reheat it gently before serving.
What other herbs go well with this sauce?
Dill, basil, and tarragon are fantastic alternatives to parsley.
🧠 Final Thoughts
This Grilled Fish with Lemon Butter Sauce embodies the essence of effortless elegance — a recipe that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying. With its buttery richness and citrusy balance, it’s proof that gourmet cooking doesn’t need to be complicated.
Serve it fresh off the grill, pour that golden sauce generously, and savor every melt-in-your-mouth bite.
💬 Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and tell us how it turned out! Your feedback helps us inspire more home cooks around the world.