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Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce

Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to achieve a beautifully seared cod fillet, golden and crispy on the outside while tender and moist on the inside. The herby lemon butter sauce, made with fresh herbs, zesty lemon juice, and creamy butter, elevates the dish, providing a burst of freshness in every bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 2

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.
    Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter 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
    Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce

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
    Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce
  • 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
    Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce
  • 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
    Pan-Seared Cod with Herby Lemon Butter Sauce
Keyword AMERICAIN, Herby Lemon Butter Sauce, Pan-Seared Cod