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Pan-Seared Flounder with Brown Butter and Lemon

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  • Author: lilly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

A delicious pan-seared flounder recipe enhanced by nutty brown butter and zesty lemon, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

  • 4 flounder fillets (46 oz / 115170 g each)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Approximately 1 cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
  • 6 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lemon, plus extra lemon wedges for serving
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

  1. Pat the flounder fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a medium to large sauté pan over high heat, making sure the bottom of the pan is well coated.
  3. Dredge each fillet lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. Carefully place the fillet into the hot oil.
  4. Cook for about 2 minutes, until the edges begin to turn opaque. Using a fish spatula, gently flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes on the other side, depending on thickness. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining fillets.
  5. Discard the oil and wipe the pan clean. Reduce heat to medium.
  6. Add the butter and cook until it turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 4 minutes.
  7. Add the thyme sprig, if using. Remove the pan from heat and immediately squeeze in the lemon juice, swirling the pan to combine.
  8. Place one fillet on each plate, spoon the brown butter sauce over the top, sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Notes

For optimal results, avoid overcooking the fish and serve with a light salad or roasted vegetables.