Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod – Light, Flaky & Bursting with Flavor!
Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option? This Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is the perfect solution. With its tender, flaky texture and bright, zesty flavor, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Cod is a versatile white fish that pairs beautifully with the richness of butter and the tang of fresh lemon. This recipe brings these elements together in a harmonious blend that's sure to please your taste buds.
For more seafood inspirations, check out our Seafood Recipes Collection and Healthy Dinner Ideas on RecipeService.net!
Ingredients
🐟 Main Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets 6 oz each, skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- Tip: Fresh cod is ideal but if using frozen, ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture during cooking.
Instructions
🔪 Step 1: Prepare the Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
🔥 Step 2: Sauté the Cod
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the cod fillets to the skillet.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
🧈 Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
- Add the butter and let it melt.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the lemon juice and zest, stirring to combine.
🍽️ Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the fish.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
🍽️ Variations
🌿 1. Herb-Infused Lemon Butter Cod
Add fresh herbs like thyme or dill to the butter sauce for an aromatic twist. 🌶️ 2. Spicy Lemon Butter Cod
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the butter sauce for a spicy kick. 🧄 3. Lemon Butter Cod with Capers
Add a tablespoon of capers to the sauce for a briny, tangy flavor enhancement. 🧊 Storage & Reheating
🧺 Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. 🔥 Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the fish and alter its texture. ❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. 2. What sides pair well with lemon butter cod?
Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement this dish nicely. 3. Can I substitute another fish for cod?
Yes, haddock or halibut are good alternatives. 4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free. 5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
It's best prepared fresh, but you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat gently. 6. How do I know when the cod is cooked through?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. 7. Can I bake the cod instead of sautéing?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, then drizzle with the lemon butter sauce. 8. What type of skillet is best for this recipe?
A non-stick or stainless steel skillet works well. 9. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, thinly sliced zucchini or cherry tomatoes can be added alongside the cod. 10. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but it's best enjoyed fresh. If prepping ahead, store the sauce and fish separately. 🌟 Conclusion
This Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is a delightful dish that's both simple and elegant. With its bright flavors and tender texture, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers on taste and presentation. For more delicious seafood recipes, visit RecipeService.net!
🌿 1. Herb-Infused Lemon Butter Cod
Add fresh herbs like thyme or dill to the butter sauce for an aromatic twist. 🌶️ 2. Spicy Lemon Butter Cod
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the butter sauce for a spicy kick. 🧄 3. Lemon Butter Cod with Capers
Add a tablespoon of capers to the sauce for a briny, tangy flavor enhancement. 🧊 Storage & Reheating
🧺 Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. 🔥 Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the fish and alter its texture. ❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. 2. What sides pair well with lemon butter cod?
Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement this dish nicely. 3. Can I substitute another fish for cod?
Yes, haddock or halibut are good alternatives. 4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free. 5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
It's best prepared fresh, but you can make it a few hours in advance and reheat gently. 6. How do I know when the cod is cooked through?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. 7. Can I bake the cod instead of sautéing?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, then drizzle with the lemon butter sauce. 8. What type of skillet is best for this recipe?
A non-stick or stainless steel skillet works well. 9. Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, thinly sliced zucchini or cherry tomatoes can be added alongside the cod. 10. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, but it's best enjoyed fresh. If prepping ahead, store the sauce and fish separately. 🌟 Conclusion
This Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is a delightful dish that's both simple and elegant. With its bright flavors and tender texture, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers on taste and presentation. For more delicious seafood recipes, visit RecipeService.net!