Print

Quick Grilled Fish Fillets Recipe with Zesty Lime Butter for Easy Dinner

quick grilled fish fillets - featured image

A fast and flavorful grilled fish fillet recipe topped with a tangy, creamy lime butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) firm, mild white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or snapper)
  • 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large lime, zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse fish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and chili flakes. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside at room temperature.
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 375°F / 190°C). Brush grill or pan with olive oil if needed.
  4. Brush both sides of the fish fillets lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Place fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until edges turn opaque and fish releases easily from grill grates.
  6. Transfer grilled fish to plates and spoon generous dollops of zesty lime butter over the top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat fish dry before seasoning to avoid steaming. Oil grill grates or fish to prevent sticking. Let lime butter come to room temperature for easy mixing and spreading. Use a thin spatula to flip fish gently. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Leftovers keep up to 2 days refrigerated; reheat gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled fish, lime butter, quick dinner, easy fish recipe, healthy fish, seafood, weeknight meal, zesty lime, grilled cod, tilapia, snapper