Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Baked Fish with Lemon Herb Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the crispiness of panko-coated fish fillets with the zesty freshness of a lemon herb sauce. The fish is baked to perfection, resulting in a golden-brown crust that encases tender, flaky meat. The accompanying sauce, infused with garlic and fresh herbs, adds a burst of flavor that elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality level. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or new to fish dishes, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and impressive to serve.

Crispy Baked Fish with Lemon Herb Sauce

Ingredients

For the Fish:

4 fresh fish fillets (cod or tilapia)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lemon Herb Sauce:

2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, and half of the panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle this mixture over both sides of the fish fillets.
Dip each seasoned fillet into olive oil before coating them thoroughly in the remaining panko breadcrumbs. Place them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
While the fish bakes, prepare the lemon herb sauce by combining minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, chopped dill, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a medium bowl.
Once the fish is done, transfer it to serving plates and drizzle generously with the lemon herb sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the fish fillets with firm tofu slices for a plant-based alternative.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Additional Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or basil to customize the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon herb sauce for a subtle heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to maintain the crispiness of the fish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, ensure the fillets are fully thawed and patted dry before preparing.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for their light and crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I prepare the lemon herb sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are preferred for their vibrant flavor, but if using dried herbs, use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Can I bake the fish at a different temperature?

While 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving a crispy crust, you can bake at 375°F (190°C) if needed; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I make the fish crispier?

For an extra crispy texture, broil the fish for the last 2–3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, other firm white fish like haddock or snapper can be used as alternatives.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be reheated for a quick and delicious meal later.

Conclusion

The Crispy Baked Fish with Lemon Herb Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of a crispy exterior and tender interior, paired with a zesty and aromatic sauce, makes for a delightful meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade, restaurant-quality dish.

Chef Sophia