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Lemon Butter Fish Bites with Garlic Aioli

Lemon Butter Fish Bites with Garlic Aioli

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Greek
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 clove Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika optional

Method
 

  1. 1.5 lbs White Fish (Cod or Halibut), cut into 1-inch cubes
  2. 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  3. 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  4. 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  5. 1 tsp Lemon Zest
  6. 1/2 Lemon, juiced
  7. 1/2 tsp Salt
  8. 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
  9. 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped

Notes

  • Fish Prep: Always pat the fish bone-dry with paper towels before seasoning. Residual moisture prevents the signature crispy crust.
  • Pan Heat: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is best). Ensure the oil is shimmering-hot before adding fish to prevent sticking.
  • Crowding: Cook in two batches if necessary. Overcrowding drops the pan temperature, causing the fish to steam rather than sear.
  • Aioli Shortcut: For a lighter version, swap half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It adds a Mediterranean tang and cuts 40 calories per serving.
  • The "Acid" Rule: Only add fresh lemon juice at the very end of cooking. High heat can turn lemon juice bitter if cooked too long.
  • Storage: Best served immediately. If reheating, use an air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid the microwave.