Lemon Butter Cod

Lemon Butter Cod

Lemon butter cod is a delectable and easy-to-prepare dish that showcases the delicate flavor of cod fillets enhanced by a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce.

This recipe emphasizes simplicity while delivering a gourmet touch, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that is both elegant and satisfying, bringing the taste of fine dining to your home kitchen. Whether paired with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad, lemon butter cod is sure to please seafood lovers and novices alike.

Introduction

Cod is a versatile fish known for its mild flavor and flaky texture. It lends itself beautifully to various cooking methods, but baking or pan-searing is particularly effective in retaining its moisture and flavor.

This lemon butter cod recipe highlights the fish’s natural sweetness, with the tangy brightness of lemon and the richness of butter enhancing every bite. The sauce is simple yet luxurious, making it a perfect complement to the tender cod.

This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packs a nutritional punch, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious diners.

Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables (optional)

How to Make Lemon Butter Cod

Step 1: Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.

If the fillets are very thick, consider cutting them in half to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt and bubble but not brown.

Step 3: Cook the Cod

Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy.

Flip the fillets gently using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Once the cod is cooked, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Pour in the lemon juice and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir gently to combine, allowing the butter to melt and create a smooth sauce.

Add the lemon zest and stir to incorporate, cooking for an additional minute to meld the flavors.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the cod fillets from the skillet and transfer them to serving plates. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Pair with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Chef’s Note

When selecting cod, look for fillets that are firm and have a clean, ocean-like smell. Fresh fish will have a slight sheen and should feel moist but not slimy.

If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a spicy kick.

This dish can be prepared using other white fish varieties like halibut or tilapia if cod is unavailable.

For added flavor, consider marinating the fish in lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for 15-30 minutes before cooking.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 29g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 600mg

Lemon butter cod is a simple yet impressive dish that brings the bright, refreshing flavors of lemon and the rich, savory taste of butter together in perfect harmony.

This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also provides a nutritious meal packed with protein and healthy fats. Enjoy the delightful flavors and tender texture of cod with this elegant dish that is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, lemon butter cod will elevate your dining experience and impress everyone at the table!

Thanks for visiting Seafoods Recipe