Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod

Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod: A Light and Flavorful Seafood Delight

Introduction: Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is an elegant, simple, and delicious dish that combines the mild flavor of cod with the bright zest of lemon and the richness of butter. This dish is quick to prepare and cook, making it a perfect weeknight meal that feels special enough for entertaining. Paired with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, this cod recipe offers a refreshing and healthy option that seafood lovers will adore.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (6-ounce each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Extra lemon slices for serving

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cod:
   • Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
2. Cook the Cod:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully place the cod fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes on one side until they turn golden brown and develop a nice crust.
   • Gently flip the fillets over using a spatula. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter and minced garlic around the fillets. As the butter melts, spoon it continuously over the cod, infusing it with garlic and butter for extra flavor.
3. Add Lemon and Serve:
   • Once the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (about 3 to 4 minutes on the second side), drizzle the lemon juice and sprinkle the zest over the fillets. Continue to spoon the buttery lemon sauce over the cod to ensure it is well coated.
   • Garnish the fillets with chopped fresh parsley and accompany each serving with extra slices of lemon for an added zesty touch.
4. Presentation:
   • Serve the Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod hot, straight from the skillet. For a complete and balanced meal, accompany the fish with steamed green beans, asparagus, or a light garden salad.

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 8 minutes Total Time: 13 minutes Nutritional Information: Approximately 320 kcal per serving. Servings: 4

Conclusion: This Lemon Butter Sautéed Cod is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can transform into a meal that’s both gourmet and nourishing. It’s a dish that celebrates the flavors of the sea enhanced with the aromatic zest of lemon and the comforting taste of melted butter. Perfect for a quick dinner yet elegant enough for guests, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal any night of the week.

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