Spice Rubbed Fish Fillets with Lemon Butter Sauce

By charlotteh371

Ingredients

• 1/2 tbs freshly ground pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp dry mustard
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/8 tsp ground cayenne
• 1 lb tilapia or sole fillets (about 4 fillets)
• 2 tbs plus 2 tsp olive oil
• 2 tbs unsalted butter
• 1 tbs fresh lemon juice, more to taste

Preparation

Step 1

in a bowl, combine the pepper, paprika, thyme, mustard, salt and cayenne. brush both sides of the fish with 2 tsp of the oil and gently rub the spice mix all over the fish.
in a small skillet, heat the butter over medium high heat, swirling the skillet, until the butter is a deep amber brown, about 3 mins; watch carefully to be sure it doesn't burn. whisk in the lemon juice and keep warm.
set a heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and heat 1 tbs of the oil.
when the oil is hot, add two of the fillets and sear until cooked through, about 2 mins per side; transfer to a plate and tent with foil. Wipe out the pan and repeat with the remaining oil and fish.
Serve immediately, spooning the butter over the fish.