Description
This Lemon Garlic Butter Swai Fish recipe features tender swai fillets pan-fried to perfection and topped with a vibrant lemon garlic butter sauce with capers, ginger, and fresh parsley. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy yet flavorful seafood dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasoning
- 2 fillets Swai fish
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For Pan Frying
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger root
- 1 tablespoon capers
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Italian parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Prep the Fish: Rinse the swai fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a nice sear later.
- Season the Fish: Evenly season both sides of the fish fillets with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, preparing them for pan-frying.
- Pan Fry the Fillets: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it begins to sizzle. Carefully place the fillets in the hot oil and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until they turn light brown and develop a crispy edge. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add 1/2 cup unsalted butter and melt it over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring continuously and cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Flavorings to the Sauce: Stir in 1 tablespoon capers, juice of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Allow the sauce to bubble gently, then immediately turn off the heat to preserve freshness and balance.
- Combine Fish and Sauce: Return the pan-fried fish fillets to the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the buttery lemon garlic sauce over the fish to coat it thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped Italian parsley. Serve the Lemon Garlic Butter Swai Fish immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Swai fish is mild-flavored and cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with olive oil for a healthier option.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste for preferred spice level.
- Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Ensure garlic does not burn as it can turn bitter; cook only until fragrant.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Lemon Garlic Butter Swai Fish, pan-fried fish, easy seafood recipe, quick dinner, lemon caper sauce
