The Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod Recipe Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Pat dry and season:
   Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the cod:
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil.
   Once hot, add the cod fillets. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
   Transfer the fillets to a plate and keep warm.
3. Make the lemon butter sauce:
   Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons butter and the minced garlic.
   Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
   Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining 1 tablespoon butter.
   Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened, about 1 minute.
4. Combine and serve:
   Return the cod to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top.
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Steamed asparagus or green beans
• Garlic mashed potatoes or rice
• A crisp green salad