Go Back
–+ servings
Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod: A Quick, Zesty Dinner Delight

This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod recipe is a quick and sensational dish that combines bright flavors for a healthy, satisfying dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cod
  • 4 fillets Cod ~5 oz each; swap with halibut or tilapia if desired
  • to taste Salt Use kosher salt for better flavor
  • to taste Pepper
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter High-quality butter is key
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Prevents the butter from burning
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; key for flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice Adds bright acidity
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest Enhances citrus flavor
For the Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped; adds freshness

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the cod fillets dry using paper towels to ensure a perfect sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers.
  3. Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the hot skillet. Sear for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  4. Reduce the skillet temperature to medium and add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt and foam.
  5. Once the butter is melted, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Allow the mixture to bubble and cook for about 1 minute.
  7. Return the seared cod to the skillet, spoon some sauce over it and let it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
  8. Remove from heat once the cod flakes easily with a fork. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 23gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 500mgVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Ensure cod fillets are completely dry before seasoning for a perfect sear. Use a fish spatula for flipping gently to prevent breaking. Consider adding crème fraîche for a creamy twist.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!