Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This pan-seared grouper recipe is your answer. Grouper, with its flaky white flesh and delicate flavor, is a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal. This recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks, and delivers restaurant-quality results in minutes. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) grouper fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Pat the grouper fillets dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Pan-sear the grouper:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles immediately.
- Carefully place the grouper fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets).
- Sear for 3-4 minutes undisturbed, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Finish the dish:
- Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the grouper.
- Cook for another minute, allowing the butter to infuse the fish with flavor.
- Remove the grouper from the skillet and transfer to a serving plate.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for Pan-Seared Grouper:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have more than two fillets, cook them in batches to ensure even searing.
- Check for doneness: The fish is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooked grouper will be dry.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Grouper: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the skillet with the butter and garlic.
- Spicy Grouper: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend for a spicy kick.
- Garlic-Butter Sauce: For a richer sauce, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a tablespoon of heavy cream.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
This pan-seared grouper recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy this delicious and healthy fish. It’s a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or whenever you crave a flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoy your delicious homemade creation! Remember to share your culinary creations with us! We'd love to see your perfectly pan-seared grouper.