Crunchy Fish Strips with Tangy Garlic Butter Dip

Lora Lopez

Posted on June 15, 2025

Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with our Crunchy Fish Strips with Tangy Garlic Butter Dip. This simple yet impressive recipe transforms everyday fish fillets into crispy, golden strips that are perfect for snacking, appetizers, or even a light meal. The accompanying tangy garlic butter dip elevates the dish, making it a hit with family and friends. Whether you are hosting a gathering or looking for a comforting dinner option, these crunchy fish strips and their zesty dip will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Crunchy Fish Strips with Tangy Garlic Butter Dip. Firstly, the combination of flaky white fish and a crispy breadcrumb coating creates a perfect texture contrast. Each bite is a delightful crunch followed by the tender, juicy interior of the fish. The use of panko breadcrumbs enhances the crunchiness, ensuring you get a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Secondly, the tangy garlic butter dip offers a burst of flavor that complements the fish strips perfectly. Made with garlic, fresh lemon juice, and parsley, this dip not only adds a tangy kick but also infuses the dish with aromatic goodness. You can adjust the garlic and lemon levels according to your preference, making it customizable for every palate.

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve these fish strips as appetizers at parties, as part of a hearty meal alongside salads or rice, or even as a fun dish for kids to enjoy. Plus, they are quick and easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and just a few ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This Crunchy Fish Strips with Tangy Garlic Butter Dip recipe is not just about taste; it also brings significant health benefits. Fish is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. By preparing the fish strips at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring that you avoid unhealthy additives often found in store-bought options.

Additionally, the recipe is adaptable to various dietary preferences. You can easily swap out the white fish for other varieties such as salmon or tilapia, depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference. For those looking to make it gluten-free, you can use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.

This recipe is also a fantastic way to introduce children to fish, masking any fishy flavors with the crunch and the delightful dip. Kids love finger foods, and these strips can be a fun way to encourage them to enjoy healthy seafood.

In summary, trying out this recipe presents an opportunity to explore new flavors, enjoy a healthier meal option, and create delicious memories with loved ones around the table. So gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (like cod or haddock)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
2 large eggs
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Oil for frying

For the Tangy Garlic Butter Dip:

½ cup unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Recommended Tools or Utensils for Recipe Success

Large skillet for frying
Three shallow bowls for the breading station
Paper towels for draining excess oil
Spatula for turning the fish strips
Knife and cutting board for preparing the fish
Small saucepan for the garlic butter dip

Detailed Recipe Steps

Follow these steps closely for perfect Crunchy Fish Strips with Tangy Garlic Butter Dip:

Prepare the Fish: Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the fish into strips, about 1 inch wide. Ensuring the fish is dry helps the breading stick better.
Set Up Breading Station: In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in one, beat the eggs in the second, and mix the breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in the third. This organized setup makes the breading process simple and efficient.
Bread the Fish: Dip each fish strip first in the flour, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the fish to ensure they stick. This method creates a thick, crunchy coating.
Fry the Fish: In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (test it by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle), carefully add the breaded fish strips in batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fish strips and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make the Tangy Garlic Butter Dip: In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned. Stir in fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Enjoy: Serve the crunchy fish strips hot with the tangy garlic butter dip on the side. Enjoy this deliciously crispy treat!

FAQs

What type of fish is best for crunchy fish strips?

White fish fillets like cod or haddock work best for Crunchy Fish Strips with Tangy Garlic Butter Dip due to their mild flavor and flaky texture. You can also use tilapia or pollock as alternatives.

Can I make the fish strips ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the fish strips ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before frying. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to fry them just before serving.

How can I make the dip spicier?

To add spice to the dip, you can incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference.

What can I serve with crunchy fish strips?

You can serve Crunchy Fish Strips with Tangy Garlic Butter Dip alongside a fresh salad, fries, or rice. They also pair well with coleslaw or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Crunchy Fish Strips with Tangy Garlic Butter Dip is a fantastic recipe that combines flavor, texture, and health benefits. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun family dinner, or simply craving a delicious snack, these crunchy fish strips are sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below or share this recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls or try our Garlic Butter Cod Strips. You can also explore our Pinterest page for more ideas: Cheflora Recipes.