If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful fish dish, Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is the perfect recipe to try. With its delicate flaky texture, the mild flavor of cod is complemented by a rich, zesty lemon butter sauce that is absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or just looking for a light, easy dinner idea, this dish will become a go-to in your kitchen.
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make this Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod recipe step by step. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How to Make Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod
Step 1: Prepare the Cod Fillets
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the fish sear better and create a golden crust.
- Season the cod with salt and pepper on both sides. If you like, you can also sprinkle a bit of dried thyme or your favorite seasoning blend to add an extra layer of flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Cod
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the cod fillets to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the cod—this delicate fish cooks quickly.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Once the cod fillets are cooked and removed from the skillet, reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and cook for another 1-2 minutes. The sauce should begin to thicken slightly and become beautifully aromatic.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Return the cod fillets to the skillet and spoon some of the lemon butter sauce over the top of each fillet.
- Let the cod sit in the sauce for an additional minute or two to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an added burst of flavor.
- Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including:
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus
- Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette
- Rice pilaf or quinoa for a gluten-free option
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod:
- Use fresh cod: If possible, choose fresh cod fillets over frozen for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the fish: Cod cooks quickly, and overcooking will make it dry. Look for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakiness to ensure it’s cooked just right.
- Customize the sauce: For an added kick, you can mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of white wine to the lemon butter sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod:
- Quick and easy: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Healthy and light: Cod is a lean, heart-healthy fish that’s low in calories and high in protein, making this dish a nutritious option for any meal.
- Deliciously zesty: The lemon butter sauce elevates the mild flavor of the cod with a tangy, buttery richness that’s irresistible.
- Versatile: Serve it with a variety of sides, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Conclusion:
Whether you’re new to cooking seafood or a seasoned pro, this Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is an easy-to-follow recipe that yields mouthwatering results every time. The delicate cod fillets, paired with the tangy lemon butter sauce, create a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
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