Ingredients
Method
- Pat fish fillets completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add fish fillets and cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on the bottom.
- Flip fish carefully and cook another 2-3 minutes until almost cooked through. The fish should feel firm but still give slightly when pressed. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
- Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same pan. When melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in white wine and let it bubble for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add lemon juice and lemon zest.
- Return fish to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Cook for another minute to heat through and finish cooking the fish.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Taste sauce and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon juice as needed.
- Serve immediately with the pan sauce spooned over each portion.
Notes
Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Don't overcook or it will become dry. This sauce is also excellent over pasta or rice. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
