Description
This Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is a quick and flavorful seafood dish that features tender cod fillets cooked to perfection in a zesty lemon butter sauce. With the addition of fresh herbs and a hint of garlic, this dish is light, savory, and perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Cod: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C). Once cooked, remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for another minute to thicken slightly.
- Finish the Dish: Return the cod fillets to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fish. Cook for an additional minute, basting the fillets with the sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the cod fillets to serving plates, drizzle with the lemon butter sauce from the skillet, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.
- For an added touch, sprinkle some capers or roasted cherry tomatoes over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet with sauce
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg