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Acadian Redfish Recipe

Pan-Seared Acadian Redfish with Lemon-Butter Sauce

A simple yet flavorful dish, this pan-seared Acadian redfish is complemented with a rich lemon-butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe highlights the fish’s delicate taste while adding a bright, zesty flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Acadian redfish fillets about 6 oz each
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter for searing
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon sliced into wedges
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine optional
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 tbsp butter for sauce
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest

Equipment

  • Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Fish spatula or tongs
  • Small saucepan (for sauce)
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Plate for serving

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Fish: Pat the Acadian redfish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
  3. Sear the Fish: Place the fillets skin-side down (if the skin is on) in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy, then flip the fillets carefully using a fish spatula or tongs. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  4. Make the Lemon-Butter Sauce: In the same pan, add 2 tbsp of butter and melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. If using white wine, add it to the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add the fresh lemon juice and zest, and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Serve: Place the cooked fillets on plates. Drizzle the lemon-butter sauce over the fish and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
    Acadian Redfish Recipe

Notes

Fish Variations: If you don’t have Acadian redfish, you can substitute it with other firm white fish such as cod, haddock, or pollock.
Grill Option: You can also grill the redfish fillets instead of pan-searing them for a smoky flavor. Just brush with a little olive oil before grilling.
Storage: Leftover cooked redfish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to prevent it from drying out.
Acadian Redfish Recipe