Looking for an easy dinner that feels fancy? This haddock with lemon butter sauce is like getting restaurant-quality food right in your kitchen. The mild, flaky fish pairs perfectly with a simple sauce that’s ready in minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over, this dish never fails to make people smile. And the best part? You won’t believe how easy it is to make.
Ingredient Substitutions
Wild Atlantic Haddock can be replaced with other white fish like cod, pollock, or tilapia. These alternatives have similar mild flavors and flaky textures, maintaining the dish’s overall profile. Adjust cooking times slightly based on the thickness of the fish.
Unsalted butter can be substituted with ghee or olive oil for a dairy-free option. Ghee provides a rich, nutty flavor, while olive oil offers a lighter taste and heart-healthy fats. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe.
For a non-alcoholic alternative to lemon juice, try white vinegar or apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of water. Use about 2 tablespoons of vinegar plus 2 tablespoons of water to replace the 1/4 cup of lemon juice. This substitution will provide the necessary acidity while altering the flavor profile slightly. Adjust to taste if needed.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 500-600
- Protein: 70-80 g
- Fat: 40-50 g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10 g
Ingredients
For the haddock:
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 lb haddock
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground preferred for more potent flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (I recommend using a good quality extra virgin olive oil)
For the lemon butter sauce:
- 1 tbsp dill (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (I use Kerrygold unsalted butter)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the garnish:
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- lemon slices
Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Mix until well combined and set aside for later use.
Step 2: Prepare the Haddock
Use a paper towel to blot haddock pieces and remove any excess moisture.
Season the haddock generously with paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and cracked black pepper, ensuring all sides are coated evenly.
Step 3: Sear the Haddock
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes.
Once hot, add the seasoned haddock to the pan and sear on both sides for 2-3 minutes each side until they develop a nice golden crust.
Carefully set the fish aside on a plate and discard the leftover oil from the pan.
Step 4: Cook the Haddock with Sauce
Return the emptied pan to the stove over medium-low heat and place the haddock back into the pan.
Spoon half of the prepared lemon butter sauce over the fish.
Continue to cook, allowing the flavors to meld, and the haddock to cook through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
If the butter sauce starts to solidify, warm it gently in a saucepan or the microwave.
Serve the haddock hot, garnished with the remaining lemon butter sauce, fresh parsley, and lemon slices on the side for added freshness and visual appeal.
