Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Butter Cod recipe that features tender cod fillets seared in rich garlic butter, finished with fresh lemon juice and herbs. Perfect for a healthy, delicious weeknight seafood meal that is both easy to prepare and customizable to your tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (fresh, thawed, or wild-caught, about 6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 3 fresh garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This helps achieve a proper sear and maximum flavor.
- Sear the Cod: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt half the butter. Place the cod fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until golden and crisp on the outside.
- Flip and Add Garlic Butter: Carefully turn the fillets, reduce heat to medium, then add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the pan. Continuously spoon the melted garlic butter over the fish as it cooks for another 3-4 minutes until the cod is opaque and flakes easily.
- Finish with Lemon and Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the fillets, and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain a good sear.
- Use a non-stick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking and facilitate easy flipping.
- After flipping, keep heat moderate to avoid browning the garlic.
- Check doneness gently; fish should flake easily with a fork without overcooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (about 6 oz)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0.2 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg