Perfecting Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod
Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is a light, flavorful dish that brings out the delicate, flaky texture of cod with a rich and tangy butter sauce. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner while offering a balance of healthy protein, omega-3s, and vibrant citrus flavors.
Equipment
- - Large skillet or non-stick pan
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- - Citrus juicer (optional)
Ingredients
- #### **For the Cod**
- - 4 cod fillets 5-6 oz each
- - 2 tablespoons olive oil
- - 1 teaspoon salt
- - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- #### **For the Lemon Butter Sauce**
- - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- - 3 cloves garlic minced
- - 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
- - 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Instructions
- #### **Step 1: Season the Cod**
- Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- #### **Step 2: Sauté the Cod**
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and flaky.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- #### **Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce**
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest, then simmer for 1-2 minutes.
- Return the cod to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets.
- #### **Step 4: Serve & Enjoy**
- - Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or quinoa.