Pan-Seared White Fish with Herb Butter

A simple, elegant meal for slow evenings at home.

Sometimes the best recipes are the simplest. A good piece of fish, a few fresh herbs, a touch of butter—and suddenly, dinner feels special.

This Pan-Seared White Fish with Herb Butter is one of those go-to recipes that feels light, fresh, and just a little indulgent. Perfect for a quiet dinner on the patio or an easy weeknight meal that still feels like a treat.

🐟 Ingredients (Serves 2):

2 fillets of white fish (cod, halibut, or sole work beautifully)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, tarragon, or thyme)
Salt & freshly ground pepper
Lemon wedges, for serving

🍳 How to Make It:

1. Prep the Fish
Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Sear to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish fillets, skin-side down if applicable, and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to plates.

3. Make the Herb Butter
In the same pan, reduce heat to low. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the fresh herbs and let them sizzle gently in the butter for a few seconds.

4. Serve & Savor
Spoon the herb butter generously over the fish. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon and perhaps a simple green salad or roasted vegetables on the side.

✨ Why This Recipe Works

Quick and easy, ready in under 20 minutes
Fresh, bright flavors with minimal ingredients
Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for any night
A lovely way to use garden herbs

Final Thought
Simple meals made with fresh, thoughtful ingredients always feel like a little act of care. This herb butter fish is a reminder that you don’t need complicated recipes to create something truly delicious.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to see! Tag me @dwelingco and share your beautiful, nourishing meals.