Name: One-Pan Fish & Broccoli in Lemon Butter Caper Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: North American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp butter; ½ cup white wine; ⅔ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup mini capers; 1 lemon, juiced; ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste); ½ lb white fish fillets (plaice, cod, or similar); ½ lb broccoli, cut into florets, stem peeled and chopped; 2 servings of rice

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Some meals just scream elegance, yet they’re shockingly easy to make. This One-Pan Fish & Broccoli in Lemon Butter Caper Sauce is exactly that—a restaurant-quality dish that comes together in minutes with minimal cleanup. Picture tender, flaky fish bathed in a luscious lemon butter sauce, kissed with briny capers, and paired with crisp-tender broccoli. It’s light yet satisfying, simple yet bursting with flavor.

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If you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels a little fancy (without any extra fuss), this one’s a game-changer. Trust me, it’ll become a regular in your rotation!

Why You’ll Love One-Pan Fish & Broccoli in Lemon Butter Caper Sauce

One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.

Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant greens.

Flavor-Packed: The combination of lemon, butter, and capers creates a bright and savory sauce that complements the fish beautifully.

Customizable: Works with any white fish—cod, tilapia, or even salmon.µ

Ingredients in One-Pan Fish & Broccoli in Lemon Butter Caper Sauce

White Fish Fillets: The star of the dish—mild, flaky, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Broccoli Florets: Adds a pop of color, crunch, and nutrition.

Lemon Juice & Zest: Brightens up the dish with fresh citrusy notes.

Butter: Creates a rich, silky sauce that coats the fish beautifully.

Capers: Briny, tangy bursts of flavor that balance the richness of the butter.

Garlic: Enhances the overall depth of the sauce.

Olive Oil: Helps sear the fish to golden perfection.

Salt & Pepper: The simple seasonings that make everything shine.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Sear the Fish: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper, then sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Broccoli: In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed and toss in the broccoli. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant.

Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic to the pan. Let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and capers.

Return the Fish: Place the fish fillets back into the pan, spooning the sauce over the top. Let everything simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the fish is fully cooked and infused with the sauce.

Serve and Enjoy: Plate the fish with the broccoli, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with fresh herbs or additional lemon slices.

How to Serve One-Pan Fish & Broccoli in Lemon Butter Caper Sauce

With Rice or Quinoa: A light grain to soak up the delicious sauce.

Over Mashed Potatoes: For a creamy, comforting pairing.

With a Side Salad: Keep it fresh with a crisp, lemony salad.

Topped with Fresh Herbs: Parsley or dill adds an extra pop of flavor.

With Garlic Bread: Because who doesn’t love soaking up that buttery sauce?

Additional Tips

Choose the Right Fish: White, flaky fish works best, but salmon is a great option too.

Don’t Overcook: Fish cooks quickly—remove it from heat once it easily flakes with a fork.

Adjust the Sauce: Add more lemon for extra brightness or an extra pat of butter for richness.

Make It Dairy-Free: Swap butter for olive oil or a plant-based alternative.

Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently for best results.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen fish?
A1: Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

Q2: What can I substitute for capers?
A2: Green olives or a splash of white wine add a similar briny touch.

Q3: How do I know when the fish is done?
A3: It should easily flake with a fork and be opaque in the center.

Q4: Can I use a different vegetable?
A4: Absolutely! Asparagus, green beans, or zucchini work well.

Q5: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A5: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to [time duration].

Q6: Can I freeze this dish?
A6: The fish can be frozen, but the sauce is best made fresh.

Q7: How can I make this spicier?
A7: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.

Q8: Can I double the sauce?
A8: Yes! It’s so good, you might want extra for drizzling over rice or veggies.

Q9: What’s the best type of pan to use?
A9: A large stainless steel or cast-iron skillet works best for even cooking.

Q10: Can I meal prep this?
A10: Yes, just store the components separately and reheat gently before serving.

This One-Pan Fish & Broccoli in Lemon Butter Caper Sauce proves that gourmet meals don’t have to be complicated. With just one pan, a handful of ingredients, and a little love, you’ll have a dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. So go ahead treat yourself to a dinner that’s as effortless as it is delicious!