Description

An Elegant Yet Simple Dish for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for an easy yet elegant dinner, this pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce is the perfect choice! The fish is tender and flaky, with a rich and refreshing citrus butter sauce that brings out its mild flavor beautifully. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it a quick option for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion.

Ingredients

• For the cod:
• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or tarragon), chopped
• For the lemon butter sauce:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or tarragon)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Method

Start by patting the cod fillets completely dry with a paper towel. This will help them sear beautifully and prevent sticking to the pan. Season both sides of the fillets generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or tarragon).

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the cod fillets to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them, and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know the cod is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fillets from the skillet and transfer them to a plate.

Next, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Allow it to melt, then stir in the lemon juice, fresh herbs, and season with salt and pepper. The sauce will come together quickly—let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, just long enough to meld the flavors and thicken slightly.

Pour the luscious lemon butter sauce over the cooked cod fillets and serve immediately. For added flair, garnish with extra herbs or a slice of lemon.
Pair this dish with a side of herb-tossed baby potatoes or roasted vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or asparagus. A slice of crusty bread will also complement the meal, allowing you to soak up any leftover sauce. It’s a light, nutritious dinner option that can be served with ease, yet offers a taste as rich as any restaurant-quality dish.

Tips and Conclusion

Cooking Tip: For a golden, crispy crust on your cod, make sure the oil is hot enough before placing the fish in the pan. This will help the fillets cook quickly and develop that perfect sear.

Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your preference. Dill offers a fresh, citrusy flavor that pairs well with the lemon butter sauce, while tarragon provides a slightly sweet note.

Freezing Cod: If you use frozen cod, be sure to fully thaw it and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
This pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce is a simple yet decadent dish that highlights the delicate flavors of fresh cod fillets. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special dinner with guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Its vibrant lemony sauce, rich butter, and fresh herbs elevate the cod into something extraordinary, proving that sometimes the simplest recipes are the best. Enjoy!