Pan-Fried Spiced White Fish Fillets with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
This pan-fried fish recipe features tender white fish fillets seasoned with a flavorful blend of paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cooked quickly in a hot skillet until golden and flaky, this simple and healthy dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. A squeeze of fresh lemon and optional parsley garnish add a bright, fresh finish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 4 white fish fillets (such as tilapia, snapper, mahi mahi)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil (30 ml)
Garnish
- 1 fresh lemon
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the fish: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice crust when cooking.
- Make the spice mixture: In a small bowl, combine paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend the spices evenly.
- Season the fish: Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each tilapia fillet, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
- Heat the oil: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive or neutral oil. Heat until the oil starts to sizzle, indicating it is hot and ready.
- Cook the fillets: Carefully place the seasoned fillets in the skillet, positioning thicker parts toward the center. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Form a crust: Cook the fillets for 3 minutes without moving them to allow a golden crust to develop on the bottom side.
- Flip and finish cooking: Gently flip each fillet and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the flesh turns opaque white and flakes easily with a fork at its thickest point.
- Add lemon juice: Squeeze half a fresh lemon over the cooked fillets to add brightness and acidity.
- Garnish: Optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the pan-fried fish immediately while hot, paired with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Choose fresh, firm white fish fillets for best results.
- If cooking multiple batches, keep cooked fillets warm in a low oven while finishing others.
- You can substitute the spices with other herbs like thyme or smoked paprika for a different flavor.
- Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
