Garlic Butter Cod with Lemon and Herbs

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If you are looking for a light, healthy seafood dinner that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort, Garlic Butter Cod with Lemon and Herbs is the perfect recipe! Featuring tender, flaky white cod fillets pan-seared to golden perfection and bathed in a sizzling garlic herb butter sauce with a splash of fresh lemon, this dish tastes like pure luxury. Best of all, it comes together in a single skillet in under 15 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Cod Fillets:

  • Cod: 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each).
  • Seasoning: ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp sea salt, and ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Olive Oil: 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (for searing).

For the Garlic Lemon Herb Butter:

  • Unsalted Butter: 3 tbsp.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves minced.
  • Lemon Juice & Zest: 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice + 1 tsp lemon zest.
  • Fresh Herbs: 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley and 1 tbsp fresh dill or thyme.
  • Garnish: Fresh lemon slices for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep and Season the Fish:
    • Pat the cod fillets completely dry on all sides using paper towels (removing excess moisture ensures a beautiful golden sear).
    • Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
  2. Sear to Golden Perfection:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the cod fillets to the hot pan and sear undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom forms a golden crust.
    • Carefully flip the fillets using a fish spatula and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes.
  3. Make the Garlic Herb Butter:
    • Lower the heat to medium-low and melt the butter in the skillet alongside the cod.
    • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden.
    • Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh parsley, and dill (or thyme), gently stirring to combine with the melted butter and pan juices.
  4. Baste and Serve:
    • Use a spoon to continuously baste the sizzling lemon herb butter over the tops of the cod fillets for 1 minute until cooked through and opaque (internal temperature reaches 145°F / 63°C).
    • Remove from heat, garnish with fresh lemon slices, and serve hot!

Chef’s Tips for Success

  • Pat Fish Thoroughly Dry: Wet fish will steam instead of searing, so ensure the surface is completely dry before placing it in the hot oil.
  • Handle with Care: Cod is a very delicate fish that flakes easily. Flip only once using a wide spatula to keep the fillets whole.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve over a bed of garlic rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted zucchini, asparagus, or a crisp green salad.

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