Description

Craving a light, flavorful seafood meal that’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but elegant enough to impress? The Haddock with Lime-Cilantro Butter recipe is your answer! This contest-winning dish features tender haddock fillets broiled to perfection and topped with a vibrant, tangy lime-cilantro butter sauce.

Ingredients

To make Haddock with Lime-Cilantro Butter for 4 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this elegant dish:

Haddock Fillets (4, 6 oz each): Flaky, mild white fish that’s the star of the dish.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the fish’s natural flavor.
Pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a mild kick.
Butter (3 tbsp, melted): Creates a rich, silky base for the sauce.
Minced Fresh Cilantro (2 tbsp): Brings fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Lime Juice (1 tbsp): Adds bright, tangy acidity.
Grated Lime Zest (1 tsp): Provides intense citrus aroma and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations:

Haddock: Swap with cod, tilapia, halibut, or another white fish.
Cilantro: Replace with parsley, basil, or dill for a different herbaceous note.
Lime Juice/Zest: Use lemon juice and zest for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Butter: Substitute with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a lighter or vegan option.
Add-Ons: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes, minced garlic, or a splash of white wine in the sauce for extra depth.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The haddock provides lean protein and a mild flavor, while the lime-cilantro butter adds healthy fats and vibrant, citrusy notes. This combination makes for a light, nutrient-rich meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Haddock

Preheat the broiler to high and position the oven rack 4–5 inches from the heat source.
Pat 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each) dry with paper towels.
Sprinkle both sides with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper.
Place the fillets on a greased broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with foil and lightly sprayed with cooking spray.

Tip: Pat the fish dry to ensure even browning, and grease the pan well to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Broil the Haddock

Broil the fillets 4–5 inches from the heat for 5–6 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature of 145°F).
No need to flip the fillets; broiling cooks them evenly from the top.

Tip: Check doneness by gently flaking the thickest part of the fish with a fork; avoid overcooking to keep it moist.

Step 3: Make the Lime-Cilantro Butter

In a small bowl, mix 3 tbsp melted butter, 2 tbsp minced fresh cilantro, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tsp grated lime zest until well combined.

Tip: Melt butter gently in the microwave (10–15 seconds) or on the stovetop, and mince cilantro finely for a smooth sauce.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer the broiled haddock fillets to plates.
Spoon the lime-cilantro butter evenly over each fillet (about 1 tbsp per serving).
Serve immediately.

Tip: Serve hot to enjoy the flaky fish and warm, fragrant sauce at their best