This dish is all about elegance in simplicity—golden, flaky cod fillets kissed with a buttery lemon sauce that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe delivers pure comfort and freshness in every bite.
🐟 Ingredients
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives
- Lemon wedges, for serving
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Season the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2️⃣ Sear to perfection: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cod fillets and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and flaky. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and cook for 30 seconds more.
4️⃣ Bring it together: Return the cod to the pan, spoon the sauce over the top, and let everything warm together for a minute.
5️⃣ Serve: Plate the cod, drizzle with extra sauce, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and add lemon wedges on the side.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use white wine instead of lemon juice for a deeper, aromatic sauce.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad.
- Works beautifully with other white fish like halibut or tilapia.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s quick, light, and unbelievably satisfying. That buttery lemon sauce? Totally crave-worthy. This is one of those dishes that feels fancy, but it’s totally fuss-free and weeknight-friendly. 🌿💛