Imagine biting into a piece of crispy flounder, the golden crust crackling as you savor the tender fish beneath. Drizzled with lemon-butter sauce, it’s a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds, making you feel like a culinary genius. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that will make your dinner guests swoon and your family beg for more.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Crispy Flounder with Lemon-Butter Sauce</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- How do I know when the flounder is cooked?
- Can I use frozen flounder for this recipe?
- What side dishes pair well with crispy flounder?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made crispy flounder with lemon-butter sauce. Friends gathered around my dining table, and as I served this delightful dish, their eyes widened in anticipation. The light, zesty aroma filled the air, and I felt like a rockstar chef. Little did they know that this incredible meal was easy to whip up, perfect for any occasion when you want to impress without stress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This crispy flounder with lemon-butter sauce is quick to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying dinner rather than cooking
- The refreshing lemon-butter sauce elevates the dish with bright flavors that will wow everyone at your table
- Its stunning presentation makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides, from rice to salads or even pasta
The reaction from my friends was priceless—gasps followed by enthusiastic cheers!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Flounder Fillets: Look for fillets that are firm and have a mild scent of the ocean for optimal freshness.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps create that satisfying crunch when pan-frying the fish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the flounder.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning in your lemon-butter sauce.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice provides a burst of brightness that’s hard to beat.
Chopped Parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness to garnish your finished dish beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Flounder with Lemon-Butter Sauce
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter before starting. This ensures you have everything handy when cooking begins.
Season the Flounder: Pat the flounder dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance its delicate flavor.
Dredge in Flour: On a large plate, spread out flour evenly. Lightly coat each flounder fillet with flour; shake off excess for an even crumble when fried.
Heat the Pan: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of butter until it bubbles. You’ll know it’s ready when you see small bubbles forming.
Crisp the Flounder: Add flounder fillets carefully into the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy—flip gently using a spatula.
Create Lemon-Butter Sauce: After removing fish from skillet, reduce heat slightly. Add remaining butter along with fresh lemon juice, stirring until combined into a luscious sauce.
Serve immediately drizzled with lemon-butter sauce and sprinkled parsley for that final touch of elegance!
Now you’ve mastered crispy flounder with lemon-butter sauce! Enjoy every bite as much as you enjoyed making it!
You Must Know
- This crispy flounder recipe pairs perfectly with the bright lemon-butter sauce, elevating every bite
- The balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering with friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the flounder first in a hot pan for a crispy exterior, then simmer the lemon-butter sauce while it cooks to maximize flavor.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley, or add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover flounder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat to avoid sogginess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For crispy skin, make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the fish
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in your sauce
I once served this crispy flounder at a family gathering and received so many compliments that I felt like a culinary rockstar!
FAQ
How do I know when the flounder is cooked?
Flounder is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Can I use frozen flounder for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What side dishes pair well with crispy flounder?
Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the fish.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Crispy Flounder with Lemon-Butter Sauce
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Crispy flounder with lemon-butter sauce is a delightful dish that transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. With its golden crust and tender fish, this recipe bursts with flavor thanks to the bright, zesty lemon-butter sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this quick and easy recipe guarantees satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 fresh flounder fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat flounder fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Dredge fillets in flour, shaking off excess.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until bubbling.
- Cook flounder for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat and add remaining butter and lemon juice, stirring to combine.
- Serve flounder drizzled with lemon-butter sauce and garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
