Pan-Seared Cod with Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
This Pan-Seared Cod with Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home. The cod is perfectly seared to golden perfection and topped with a rich lemon butter sauce full of fresh herbs. This dish pairs wonderfully with sautéed spinach rice or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cod
4 cod fillets
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
Add the cod fillets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through Remove and set aside
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In the same pan reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant
Pour in the broth heavy cream lemon juice lemon zest and Dijon mustard Stir well
Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened Season with salt and pepper
Step 3: Finish the Dish
Return the cod to the pan and spoon the sauce over the fillets
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides
Tips
Use fresh cod for the best flavor and texture
Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the fish
For a lighter sauce substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for the cream
Add capers or fresh dill for extra flavor
Serve with rice mashed potatoes or sautéed greens
Nutrition Information per Serving
Calories: ~400 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~6g
Fats: ~28g
Fiber: ~1g
Sodium: ~400mg
Conclusion
This Pan-Seared Cod with Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce is a light yet indulgent dish perfect for any occasion. The flaky tender cod pairs beautifully with the rich and zesty sauce creating a meal that is both comforting and impressive. Whether you are making a weeknight dinner or serving guests this dish is sure to impress with its fresh flavors and elegant presentation. Enjoy it with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.