Sep 03 2026
RestaurantsSanta Fe Seafood & Grill1 Pc. Fish Fillet Recipe

1 Pc. Fish Fillet Recipe

Time25m
Serves1

Substitutions Can Be Made For Additional Charge.

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Ingredients

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Fish and Seasoning

Breading (optional — for fried/crispy)

Method

Fish and Seasoning

  1. 1

    Prepare Fillet

    Pat the fish fillet dry with paper towels on both sides. This helps seasoning stick and reduces splatter during cooking.

  2. 2

    Season both sides of the fillet evenly with 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp paprika and 1/4 tsp garlic powder. Rub gently so spices adhere. Squeeze juice from 1/2 lemon over the top and let rest 5–10 minutes while you prepare breading or heat the pan/oil.

Breading (optional — for fried/crispy)

  1. 3

    Set up Breading Station

    Place flour and cornstarch in a shallow dish and mix. In a second shallow bowl whisk the egg with 2 Tbs milk or water. In a third shallow dish combine panko breadcrumbs with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper.

  2. 4

    Bread the Fillet

    Dredge the seasoned fillet first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg wash, and finally press gently into the panko breadcrumbs so it is evenly coated. Place the breaded fillet on a plate and rest 5 minutes to help coating adhere.

Cooking Fats & Garnish

  1. 5

    For Pan-Frying (crispy)

    Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1/2 cup neutral oil. The oil is ready when it shimmers and a pinch of breadcrumb sizzles on contact. Carefully add the breaded fillet and cook 3–4 minutes without moving until golden brown. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fillet flakes easily. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Optional: sprinkle chopped parsley over the fillet and serve with lemon.

  2. 6

    For Pan-Searing (no breading)

    If you prefer the fillet unbreaded, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 Tbsp unsalted butter (and 1 tsp oil if desired to prevent burning). When butter foams, add the seasoned fillet skin-side (or presentation side) down. Cook 3–4 minutes undisturbed until a golden crust forms, then flip and cook 2–4 more minutes until opaque and flakey, reaching 145°F (63°C). Remove from pan, spoon pan juices over the fillet, garnish with parsley and a lemon wedge.

  3. 7

    If substituting or ordering a different fish, adjust cooking time slightly for thickness: thicker fillets need an extra 1–3 minutes per side. Serve immediately.

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