Lemon Butter Cod Recipe
A dish that sings with bright flavors and buttery goodness, this Lemon Butter Cod Recipe is an absolute must-try. Perfectly cooked cod fillets, delicately seasoned and enveloped in a luscious lemon-butter sauce, make for an impressive yet easy meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a delightful dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Why It Deserves a Spot
This Lemon Butter Cod Recipe deserves a spot on your dinner table for several reasons. First, the cod is a light and flaky fish rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Second, the combination of lemon and butter creates a sauce that’s both rich and refreshing, enhancing the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering them. Third, the recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties. Lastly, it’s versatile—pair it with a simple salad, some roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice, and you have a complete meal that’s both elegant and satisfying.
What We’re Using
For this Lemon Butter Cod Recipe, we’re using the following ingredients:
- 4 skinless cod fillets (6 oz each, about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 5 tablespoons Danish Creamery Butter, cut into 1 tablespoon pieces, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 1/2 tablespoons low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Tools of the Trade
To whip up this delicious Lemon Butter Cod Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Non-stick skillet: For a perfect sear that prevents sticking.
- Spatula: To flip and serve the cod without breaking it apart.
- Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
- Cutting board and knife: To prepare the garlic and parsley.
- Serving plate: To beautifully present your finished dish.
Lemon Butter Cod Recipe Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a good sear. Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a light dusting of flour. The flour will help create a lovely crust when cooked.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the skillet.
Step 3: Sear the Cod
Cook the cod for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until it develops a lovely golden-brown crust. Gently flip the fillets using a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Once done, transfer the cod to a plate and cover it with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping any brown bits from the skillet to deglaze.
Step 5: Add the Butter
Reduce the heat to low and add the butter, one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this delightful dish with your choice of side!
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks
If you’re looking to modify the Lemon Butter Cod Recipe for a healthier take, consider the following options:
- Use less butter: You can reduce the amount of butter by one or two tablespoons without sacrificing too much flavor.
- Substitute olive oil: Instead of butter, use a bit more olive oil for a lighter sauce.
- Increase herbs: Boost the amount of herbs for added flavor without extra calories.
- Serve with veggies: Pair the cod with steamed or roasted vegetables to enhance nutritional value.
Learn from These Mistakes
Cooking can be a learning experience, and here are a few common pitfalls to avoid when preparing this Lemon Butter Cod Recipe:
- Overcooking the cod: Cod cooks quickly, so watch it closely to prevent it from becoming dry. Remember, it should flake easily when done.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning the fish well. It’s crucial for flavor.
- Not using a non-stick skillet: Using a regular skillet may cause the fish to stick and break apart when flipping.
- Forgetting to cover the cooked cod: Keeping the cod covered with foil helps maintain its temperature and moisture.
Prep Ahead & Store
If you’re planning ahead, here are some tips for prepping and storing the Lemon Butter Cod Recipe:
You can season the cod fillets with the spices and flour up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. The lemon butter sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Storing leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store the cooked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the cod in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
Reader Questions
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the cod completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
What can I serve with Lemon Butter Cod?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed asparagus, a fresh green salad, or fluffy rice. You can also serve it with roasted potatoes for a heartier option.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version of this Lemon Butter Cod Recipe.
Is there an alternative to chicken broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or even water if you need a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to maintain flavor.
Let’s Eat
Now that you’ve successfully created this incredible Lemon Butter Cod Recipe, it’s time to dig in! Plate your cod, drizzle it with that luscious lemon-butter sauce, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors. This dish not only tastes fantastic but also brings a touch of elegance to your dining experience. Bon appétit!
Lemon Butter Cod Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Cod. Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a light dusting of flour.
- Step 2: Heat the Skillet. In a large non-stick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the skillet.
- Step 3: Sear the Cod. Cook the cod for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until it develops a golden-brown crust. Gently flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping any brown bits to deglaze.
- Step 5: Add the Butter. Reduce the heat to low and add the butter, one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Serve It Up. Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Season the cod fillets up to 24 hours in advance for easier prep.
- The lemon butter sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to three days.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
