Here’s a simple and flavorful Fresh Fish and Seafood Recipe that combines the best of both worlds—light and flaky fish with succulent shrimp. This recipe is quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Garlic Butter Fish and Shrimp with Lemon
Ingredients:
- 2 filets of fresh fish (such as salmon, cod, or tilapia)
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- Juice of 1 lemon (zest reserved for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fish and Shrimp:
- Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Fish:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the pan is hot, add the fish fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until the fish is golden and easily flakes with a fork. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, add 2 tbsp butter and let it melt.
- Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the fish.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tbsp butter.
- Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the white wine (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Add the lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch more salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the fish and shrimp to the pan, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let them simmer in the sauce for about 1-2 minutes to warm through and absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and the lemon zest.
6. Serve:
- Serve the fish and shrimp with the garlic butter sauce on top. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to the pan when cooking the fish and shrimp for a subtle herby note.
- Use other seafood: You can substitute or add other seafood like scallops or mussels. Just adjust the cooking times as needed.
- Make it creamy: For a creamy version of the sauce, stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
This Garlic Butter Fish and Shrimp with Lemon is a simple yet elegant dish that makes the most of fresh fish and seafood. The buttery sauce with garlic and lemon complements the natural sweetness of the shrimp and the delicate flavor of the fish. Perfect for any seafood lover!