Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce Recipe
This simple yet refined dish highlights the delicate flavor and texture of cod, enhanced by a vibrant lemon-herb butter sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion.
Print
Pin
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets about 6 oz each
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Lemon-Herb Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Juice from 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs parsley, thyme, or dill
Instructions
- Begin by heating a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to the pan and allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- As the pan heats up, use paper towels to pat the cod fillets dry. Season both sides of the fish with salt and pepper.
- Carefully lay the seasoned cod fillets into the hot oil. Cook each side for approximately 4-5 minutes, until the fillets are opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork. Once done, transfer the cod to a warm plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium. If needed, clear away any leftover bits from the pan. Add butter and let it melt, swirling the pan gently to ensure it coats evenly.
- Once the butter is melted, stir in the fresh lemon juice and herbs. Combine thoroughly and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Generously spoon the lemon-herb butter sauce over the seared cod fillets. If desired, garnish with extra fresh herbs or lemon wedges before serving immediately.
Notes
Herb Selection: Feel free to use a combination of herbs or substitute based on what you have available; soft herbs like parsley, dill, and thyme work best.
Achieving a Golden Sear: Ensure the skillet is hot enough to create a beautiful golden crust on the fish without burning.
Fish Doneness: Test the fish by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet—if it flakes easily, it’s ready.
Thicker Sauce Option: For a thicker sauce, remove the cod from the pan and simmer the butter mixture a bit longer to reduce before serving.
Achieving a Golden Sear: Ensure the skillet is hot enough to create a beautiful golden crust on the fish without burning.
Fish Doneness: Test the fish by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet—if it flakes easily, it’s ready.
Thicker Sauce Option: For a thicker sauce, remove the cod from the pan and simmer the butter mixture a bit longer to reduce before serving.