Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is an elegant yet simple dish that highlights the delicate flavor and flaky texture of cod. Perfectly seared to achieve a golden crust, the fish is paired with a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives.
This dish is quick to prepare and versatile, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Pair it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with lean protein and vibrant herbs for a wholesome dish.
• Elegant Presentation: A beautiful golden crust and vibrant herb butter elevate this meal.
Ingredients
• 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, snipped
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Fish
1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
2. Place the cod fillets in the skillet, presentation side down.
3. Sear for about 4 minutes, or until the underside develops a golden crust.
4. Carefully flip the fillets using a spatula and cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 3: Make the Herb Butter Sauce
1. Transfer the seared cod to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.
2. Lower the skillet heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic.
3. Cook, stirring, until the butter has melted and the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, dill, and chives.
Step 4: Serve
1. Spoon the warm herb butter sauce generously over the cod fillets.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Tips
• Dry the Fish: Patting the fish dry ensures a crispy golden crust during searing.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch but reduce the amount by half.
• Gentle Handling: Cod is delicate, so handle carefully to prevent breaking during flipping.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked cod fillets in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is a refined, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions. The buttery, herbaceous sauce complements the tender, flaky cod perfectly, making this recipe a go-to for seafood lovers!
