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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.
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Ingredients Equipment Method

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

Equipment

  • - Large skillet or non-stick pan
  • Spatula
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • - Citrus juicer (optional)

Method
 

  1. #### **Step 1: Season the Cod**
  2. Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
  3. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  4. #### **Step 2: Sauté the Cod**
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Add the cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and flaky.
  7. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  8. #### **Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce**
  9. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  10. Add garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  11. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then simmer for 1-2 minutes.
  12. Return the cod to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets.
  13. #### **Step 4: Serve & Enjoy**
  14. - Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or quinoa.