Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce
Table of Contents
a delicious pan-seared cod with a herby lemon butter sauce This dish looks beautifully garnished with fresh herbs, lemon slices, and a peppery seasoning on top.
Indulge in a culinary delight with this Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce. This elegant dish combines the delicate, flaky texture of fresh cod with a vibrant, herb-infused lemon butter sauce that perfectly complements the fish’s natural flavors.
Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party centerpiece, this dish pairs wonderfully with sautéed seasonal vegetables or a light salad, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Join us in the kitchen and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal at home that will impress family and friends alike.
Get ready to savor the harmonious blend of flavors that this Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce brings to your table!
Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet
- Spatula
- Small saucepan for the butter sauce
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
For the Pan-Seared Cod:
- 2 fresh cod fillets about 6 oz each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
- Lemon wedges for serving
For the Herby Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Juice of 1 lemon about 2 tablespoons
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cod Fillets
- Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This is key to getting a nice crispy sear.
- Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder (optional). Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Making the Herby Lemon Butter Sauce
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once it begins to bubble, addthe minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant
- Stirin the lemon juice and mix well
- Remove the pan from heat, then add the freshly chopped parsley, dill, and thyme.Season the sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside
Step 3: Pan-Searing the Cod
- Heat1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oilshould shimmer, but not start smoking
- Carefullyplace the cod fillets into the pan, skin side down (if applicable). Let themcook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until a golden crust forms
- Gently flip the fillets with a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until thefish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork
- Remove the cod from the pan and allow it to rest on a plate for a minute.
Step 4: Adding the Herby Lemon Butter Sauce
- Generouslydrizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over the cooked cod fillets
- Top with extra fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges for added flavor
Step 5: Plating and Garnishing Tips
- Place the cod fillets on a clean plate, garnished with fresh parsley and dill
- Serve alongside lemon wedges and complement the dish with a light side salad orroasted vegetables for a complete meal
Tips for Perfect Pan-Seared Cod
- Choosing the Cod Freshness: Look for cod with a mild, clean smell. The flesh should be firm and translucent. If possible, buy from a trusted fishmonger. Thickness: Choose fillets that are at least 1 inch thick to prevent overcooking.
- Preparing the Cod Pat Dry: Make sure the cod fillets are well-dried with paper towels before seasoning. This ensures a nice sear and prevents sticking. Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning. A good sprinkle of salt and pepper enhances the flavor of the fish.
- Cooking Techniques Use the Right Pan: A heavy skillet (like cast iron or stainless steel) retains heat well, creating a perfect sear. Preheat the Pan: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the cod. A hot pan helps achieve a golden crust. Use Oil with High Smoke Point: Choose oils like canola or avocado oil for searing, as they can withstand higher temperatures without burning.
- Making the Herby Lemon Butter Sauce Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil provide the best flavor. Adjust based on personal preference. Zest and Juice: Use both lemon zest and juice for a bright flavor. The zest adds aromatic oils, while the juice gives acidity. Butter Temperature: Add butter at a medium-low temperature to prevent burning. It should be just melted and bubbling.
Customizing the Recipe
- Herb alternatives:
Don’t have fresh dill? No problem! You can swap it out with basil, cilantro, or even chives for a different flavor profile.
- Butter alternatives:
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use olive oil in place of butter. The sauce will be lighter but still flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides:
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, sautéed greens, or a light quinoa salad. The lemon butter sauce also complements steamed asparagus or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Wine pairing:
A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, works well with the delicate flavors of cod and the richness of the lemon butter sauce.
Health Benefits of Cod
Cod is a lean, low-calorie protein that is rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iodine, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are important for brain function, heart health, and maintaining healthy skin and hair. Cod is also lower in mercury compared to other fish, making it a safer choice for regular consumption.
Conclusion
This Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce is a perfect go-to recipe for when you want something quick, flavorful, and healthy. With its crispy golden exterior and zesty lemon butter sauce, this dish will impress both family and guests. Give it a try for your next dinner, and enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors of this simple yet elegant meal.
FAQs
- 1. Can I use frozen cod?
Absolutely! Frozen cod works just fine, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to ensure the best texture when cooking.
- 2. How do I store leftover cod?
Place any leftover cod in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a skillet on low heat to avoid drying out the fish.
- 3. Can I prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance?
Yes, you can! Make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to use it, just gently reheat before pouring it over the fish.
- 4. Can I substitute cod with another type of fish?
efinitely! You can swap cod for other white fish like halibut, haddock, or tilapia. Just note that the cooking time may change depending on the thickness of the fish.
- 5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Just replace the butter with a dairy-free option like vegan butter or olive oil for a delicious, dairy-free version of the dish.
