Lemon Butter Fish Bites with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Crispy and flavorful Lemon Butter Fish Bites made with fresh white fish fillets, coated in a seasoned flour mixture and pan-fried in lemon-infused butter. Served alongside a creamy garlic aioli for a delicious and easy appetizer or main course that's perfect for seafood lovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Fresh white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/4 cup Unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
- 1 unit Lemon zest
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Garlic Aioli Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Aioli: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the mixture is smooth. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the fish bites to let the flavors meld.
- Cut Fish: Cut the fresh fish fillets into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Prepare Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika to create a seasoned dredging flour.
- Coat Fish Bites: Dredge each piece of fish in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour to prevent clumping and ensure a crisp coating.
- Heat Butter and Lemon: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once fully melted, stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, combining the flavors thoroughly.
- Cook Fish Bites: Add the floured fish pieces to the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain Excess Butter: Remove the cooked fish bites from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This step helps absorb any excess butter and keeps the bites crisp.
- Serve: Arrange the lemon butter fish bites on a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with the garlic aioli on the side for dipping, enhancing the dish with a creamy garlic flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh fish fillets for the best taste and texture. Cod, tilapia, or haddock work well.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet to ensure even frying and crispy bites.
- Adjust lemon juice in both the butter sauce and aioli to taste for more or less tang.
- The fish bites are best enjoyed immediately to maintain their crispiness.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
