Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce
Flaky, tender cod fillets pan-seared to golden perfection and draped in a luscious lemon butter sauce with a hint of garlic. This elegant dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Cod
- b.Thoroughly pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. A dry surface is essential for achieving a perfect golden-brown crust.
- c.Season both sides of each fillet generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sear the Cod Fillets
- b.Place a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and heat until it shimmers.
- c.Carefully lay the seasoned cod fillets in the hot pan. Ensure they are not overcrowded; cook in two batches if necessary.
- d.Sear for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a beautiful golden crust forms.
- e.Gently flip the fillets using a fish spatula. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- f.Transfer the cooked cod to a clean plate and set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Create the Lemon Butter Sauce
- b.Reduce the heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, add the pieces of unsalted butter. As it melts, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- c.Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- d.Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
- e.Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve and Garnish
- b.Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to re-warm gently.
- c.Alternatively, place the fillets on serving plates and pour the warm sauce over the top.
- d.Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crispiest skin, make sure the pan is sufficiently hot before adding the fish.
- 2Use a fish spatula for flipping the fillets; its thin, flexible design helps prevent the delicate fish from breaking apart.
- 3Fresh lemon juice is key. Bottled juice lacks the bright, fresh flavor that makes this sauce special.
- 4If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the white wine with an equal amount of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth.
- 5Do not overcook the cod. It will continue to cook slightly from residual heat after being removed from the pan.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Capers
For a briny, tangy kick, add 1-2 tablespoons of drained capers to the sauce along with the garlic.
Herb VariationsHerb Variations
Incorporate other fresh herbs like dill, chives, or tarragon into the sauce for a different flavor profile.
Brown Butter (Beurre Noisette)Brown Butter (Beurre Noisette)
Allow the butter to melt and foam, then continue cooking until it turns a nutty brown color before adding the garlic. This adds a rich, nutty depth to the sauce.
Use Different FishUse Different Fish
This recipe works wonderfully with other flaky white fish such as halibut, haddock, or tilapia. Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Cod is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
This fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which are known to support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels, as well as promoting brain function.
Supports Immune Function
The fresh lemon juice provides a good dose of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system and protect cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of this Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce contains approximately 320-360 calories, making it a relatively light yet satisfying main course. The exact count can vary based on the size of the cod fillet and the amount of butter used.