Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod
A quick and easy seafood dish featuring cod fillets pan-seared in a rich lemon butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 fillets cod fillets (6 oz each) If you cannot find fresh cod, consider using frozen fillets. Thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
- 2 tablespoons butter Unsalted butter is ideal for adjusting seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic yields the best flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
- 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon Use fresh lemons for the most vibrant taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: seasonal vegetables (like asparagus or green beans)
- 1 cup cooked rice or pasta for serving Optional, for a complete meal.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the cod fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cooking
- Place the seasoned fillets in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
- In the final minute of cooking, add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir it gently to combine the flavors without letting it burn.
- Once the cod is fully cooked, remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the fillets.
- Plate your lemon butter cod with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
Notes
Cooked cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain tenderness. Consider adding fresh herbs or red pepper flakes for variations.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 40gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 500mg
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