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Pan-Seared White Fish in Creamy White Wine Sauce

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  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Total Time: 15-17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Pan-Seared White Fish in Creamy White Wine Sauce is a delicate, flavorful dish featuring perfectly seared fish with a rich, velvety sauce. The mild fish pairs beautifully with the buttery, garlicky white wine sauce, making it an indulgent yet simple dish that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.


Ingredients

  • 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, halibut, or sole)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

  • Pan-sear the fish: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.

  • Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn it).

  • Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.

  • Add cream and lemon: Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes smooth.

  • Combine the fish and sauce: Return the fish to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to warm the fish through and let it absorb the sauce.

  • Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.


Notes

Add capers: Stir in a tablespoon of capers for a tangy kick that pairs well with the creamy sauce.Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.Herb variations: Try using fresh thyme, dill, or tarragon to enhance the flavor of the sauce.Use a different fish: Substitute cod or tilapia with snapper, grouper, or even salmon for a different twist.