Ingredients:
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (150-200g each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra brightness)
- ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for a thinner sauce)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a nice sear. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Lightly coat each fillet in flour, shaking off any excess—this helps create a crispy, golden crust.
Step 2: Cook the Cod
In a large non-stick skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the cod fillets. Sear for 3–4 minutes until the bottom turns golden brown. Carefully flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, depending on thickness. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 60°C (140°F). Transfer the fillets to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and add 3 tbsp of butter to the same pan. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Stir in the lemon juice, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan. If you prefer a lighter sauce, add chicken or vegetable broth and let it simmer briefly. Finish by stirring in the lemon zest (if using) and chopped parsley. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Return the cod fillets to the pan, spoon the sauce over them, and let them absorb the flavors for about 30 seconds. Transfer to serving plates and drizzle any remaining sauce on top. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Final Thoughts
This pan-seared cod with lemon butter sauce is simple yet elegant, offering a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. The crispy crust, tender flaky fish, and bright, buttery sauce make it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Enjoy your meal!