Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is a delicious way to enjoy fish for dinner. This recipe brings out the best flavors of cod, making it tender and flaky. With a herb butter sauce that adds richness and freshness, it’s easy to see why this dish is a family favorite!
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Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it’s quick and easy! It takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Plus, the combination of buttery herbs and the light taste of cod is simply irresistible. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Impress your family and friends with this delightful meal!
How to Make Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, snipped
Directions:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place the cod fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown.
- Gently flip the fillets using a spatula. Cook for another 3 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and keep warm on a plate that’s tented with foil.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and garlic. Cook until the butter has melted and the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, parsley, dill, and chives.
- Spoon the herb butter sauce over the warm cod fillets and serve immediately.
How to Serve Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce
Serve your Golden Seared Cod on a plate and drizzle the herb butter sauce generously on top. This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. A slice of lemon on the side adds a nice touch!
How to Store Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce
If you have leftovers, let the cod cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Tips to Make Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce
- Make sure to dry the cod fillets well. This helps achieve a nice sear on the fish.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the fish in batches if necessary.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste—basil or tarragon can be a great addition!
Variation
You can swap the cod with other fish like salmon or tilapia. Each type of fish may have a different cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 6-ounce cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives snipped
Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place the cod fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown.
- Gently flip the fillets using a spatula. Cook for another 3 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and keep warm on a plate that’s tented with foil.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and garlic. Cook until the butter has melted and the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, parsley, dill, and chives.
- Spoon the herb butter sauce over the warm cod fillets and serve immediately.
Notes
- This helps achieve a nice sear on the fish.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the fish in batches if necessary.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs according to your taste—basil or tarragon can be a great addition!
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FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cod fillets?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: You can use dried herbs instead. Just use 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
Q: Is this recipe healthy?
A: Yes! Cod is low in calories and high in protein. The herbs and lemon add flavor without too many extra calories.
