Sole Meunière (Pan-Fried Sole) Recipe – French Special

Sole Meunière is a timeless French seafood classic made with delicate sole fillets lightly dredged in flour, pan-fried in butter, and finished with lemon and parsley. Known for its simplicity and refined flavor, this pan-fried sole dish highlights the natural sweetness of the fish with a rich brown butter sauce. Often served in French bistros, Sole Meunière is an elegant yet quick recipe perfect for light dinners, special occasions, or refined home cooking.

  • Prep Time10 min
  • Cook Time8 min
  • Total Time18 min

Sole Meunière (Pan-Fried Sole) Ingredients:

  • 400–500 g sole fillets
  • Salt and white or black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp capers (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Sole Meunière (Pan-Fried Sole) Instructions:

1

Pat the sole fillets dry with paper towels.

2

Season the fish lightly with salt and pepper.

3

Dredge the fillets in flour, shaking off excess.

4

Heat butter and olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat.

5

Add the sole fillets and cook gently until golden on one side.

6

Flip carefully and cook the other side until just cooked through.

7

Remove fish from the pan and keep warm.

8

Add remaining butter to the pan and let it brown lightly.

9

Stir in lemon juice and capers if using.

10

Pour the butter sauce over the fish.

11

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Recipe Notes :

Use fresh sole fillets for the most delicate texture and flavor.

Lightly dredging the fish ensures a golden crust without overpowering the fish.

Cook sole gently over medium heat to avoid breaking the fillets.

Brown the butter carefully to achieve a nutty aroma without burning.

Capers add a pleasant salty contrast but are optional.