Lemon Butter Cod

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A close-up of a golden-brown cod fillet on a white and blue plate, drizzled with lemon butter sauce, served with steamed asparagus and rice. The dish is garnished with lemon slices and parsley, creating an appetizing and elegant presentation.

Easy Lemon Butter Cod

This Easy Lemon Butter Cod Recipe transforms simple cod fillets into a gourmet meal. With a perfectly seared exterior and a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce, this dish is both impressive and incredibly simple to make. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 12-inch non-stick skillet, Fish spatula, Small mixing bowl, Measuring spoons and cups, Paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 4 6 oz cod fillets [170 g each]
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon juiced [about 2 tablespoons or 30 ml]
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped [8 g]
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour [8 g]
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder [2 g]
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder [2 g]
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika [2 g]
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano [0.5 g]
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt [4 g]
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper [2 g]
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil [30 ml]
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter [45 g]
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth [60 ml]

Instructions
 

  • Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the cod fillets.
  • Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the seasoned cod fillets to the skillet.
  • Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and easily flakes with a fork.
  • Transfer the cooked fish to a serving plate and cover to keep warm.
  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  • Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, stirring until melted and sauce is slightly thickened.
  • Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
  • Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets.
  • Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

– For best results, use cod fillets that are about 1-inch thick.
– If using frozen cod, thaw completely before cooking.
– Cod can be substituted with other white fish like haddock or pollock.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keyword 20-minute dinner, easy cod recipe, healthy fish recipe, keto-friendly fish, lemon butter cod, lemon garlic cod, low-carb fish dish, quick seafood dinner, restaurant-style cod, weeknight seafood meal, white fish recipe

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