Name: Lemon Butter Cod Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets ((6 oz each), skinless, about 1-inch thick); 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp dried thyme; 1/4 tsp dried oregano; 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper; 3/4 tsp salt (or to taste); 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 5 Tbsp Danish Creamery Butter (cut into 1 Tbsp pieces, divided); 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 Tbsp minced garlic; 1 1/2 Tbsp low-sodium chicken broth; 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Imagine a dish that captures the essence of bright, zesty flavors mingling with the delicate, flaky texture of cod. This Lemon Butter Cod Recipe is just what you need to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests at your next gathering. With a perfect balance of tangy lemon, rich butter, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and explore how to create this delectable meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Butter Cod Recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it highlights the fresh taste of cod, a versatile fish that pairs beautifully with a variety of seasonings. The lemon and butter create a mouthwatering sauce that keeps the fish moist and flavorful. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a healthy choice, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

Ingredient Checklist

To make this Lemon Butter Cod, you will need the following ingredients:

4 cod fillets (6 oz each), skinless, about 1-inch thick
1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
3/4 tsp salt, or to taste
3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
5 Tbsp Danish Creamery Butter, cut into 1 Tbsp pieces, divided
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 1/2 Tbsp low-sodium chicken broth
1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Toolbox for This Recipe

To create this delicious Lemon Butter Cod, you’ll need the following tools:

Large skillet: Ideal for searing the cod and making the sauce.
Measuring spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula: To flip the cod fillets without breaking them apart.
Whisk: For mixing the flour and spices evenly.
Serving plate: To present your beautiful dish.

From Start to Finish: Lemon Butter Cod Recipe

Getting your Lemon Butter Cod on the table is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Cod Fillets

Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a nice sear. In a shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each cod fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, carefully add the cod fillets to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Once done, remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a serving plate.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn! Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds incredible flavor to your sauce.

Step 4: Add the Butter

Once the broth is simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the pieces of Danish Creamery Butter one at a time. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top. Let them warm through for an additional minute. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, and enjoy your Lemon Butter Cod with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

What to Use Instead

If you need to make substitutions, consider the following:

Cod fillets can be swapped for other firm white fish like haddock or tilapia.
For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour.
Replace Danish Creamery Butter with ghee or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
If you prefer a different herb flavor, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil.

What I Learned Testing

Through testing this Lemon Butter Cod Recipe, I discovered a few key insights that made the dish even better:

Patting the fish dry makes a significant difference in achieving a crispy exterior.
Using fresh lemon juice, rather than bottled, elevates the flavor profile of the sauce.
Cooking the garlic until just fragrant prevents bitterness and ensures a pleasant flavor.
Letting the cod rest for a minute after cooking keeps it moist and tender.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your leftover Lemon Butter Cod fresh:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freeze: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the cooked cod for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheat: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.

In Closing

This Lemon Butter Cod Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a quick, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress. The combination of zesty lemon, creamy butter, and tender cod creates a dish that is both satisfying and light. Whether you serve it for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. Don’t be surprised if this recipe becomes a regular in your meal rotation! Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!