Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce Recipe

This Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is a light yet flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or an elegant meal. The cod fillets are pan-seared to golden perfection, creating a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside flaky and tender. The dish is then finished with a rich, herb-infused butter sauce that complements the delicate flavor of the cod.

This guide will walk you through each step of the recipe, including tips for achieving the perfect sear, suggestions for side dishes, and even a few variations to make the dish your own!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Cod

1. Season the Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them sear evenly. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika (optional).
2. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Let the oil heat until it shimmers; this helps to create a golden crust on the cod.

2. Searing the Cod

1. Add the Cod to the Pan: Carefully place the cod fillets in the skillet, leaving space between each piece to avoid overcrowding. Let the fish cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on the first side.
2. Flip and Cook the Other Side: Use a spatula to carefully flip each fillet. Cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The fish should have a golden-brown crust.
3. Remove and Keep Warm: Transfer the seared cod fillets to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.

3. Making the Herb Butter Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add Lemon Juice and Herbs: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, followed by the chopped herbs. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Remove from Heat: Turn off the heat and pour the sauce over the cod fillets.

Serving Suggestions

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving ideas to create a complete meal:

1. Vegetable Medley: Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or zucchini.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or a lighter cauliflower mash.
3. Rice or Quinoa: Serve with fluffy white rice, wild rice, or a quinoa salad.
4. Salad: A crisp side salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Recipe Variations

Here are some ways to adapt this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary preferences:

1. Add Spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter sauce.
2. Swap Herbs: Try basil, dill, or tarragon instead of parsley and chives, depending on your flavor preference.
3. Alternative Fish: Substitute cod with other mild white fish, like halibut, haddock, or tilapia, using the same searing method.

Cooking Tips

• Dry the Fish: Make sure to pat the cod fillets completely dry before seasoning. This step is key to achieving a golden crust when searing.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Avoid overcrowding, as this can cause the fish to steam rather than sear. If needed, cook the cod in batches.
• Watch the Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks in the butter. Garlic can burn quickly, which would give the sauce a bitter taste.

Storage and Reheating

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Cod does not freeze well once cooked, as it can become mushy when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Reheat the cod in a skillet over low heat with a bit of extra butter or olive oil, just until warmed through.
• Oven: Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as it can dry out the fish.

Conclusion

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is a quick and delightful way to enjoy seafood at home. The combination of golden-browned cod and a rich, herb-infused butter sauce creates an impressive dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. Pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal, or serve it alongside a light salad for a refreshing dinner option.

This recipe is perfect for any level of cooking experience and is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy the delicate flavors and tender texture of the cod as it’s complemented by the fresh, zesty notes of lemon and herbs!

Yield: 4

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce Recipe

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This Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is a light yet flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or an elegant meal. The cod fillets are pan-seared to golden perfection, creating a crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside flaky and tender. The dish is then finished with a rich, herb-infused butter sauce that complements the delicate flavor of the cod.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless and boneless
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cod:
   Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
   
2. Sear the Cod:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan and let it melt.
   Place the cod fillets in the skillet and sear undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, until golden and crispy. Flip carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Prepare the Herb Butter Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat.
   Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
   Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and dill, mixing well to combine. Let the sauce cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
   
4. Serve:
   Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the herb butter sauce over each piece. Cook for 1 minute to warm the fish.
   Transfer the cod to serving plates, drizzle with any remaining sauce from the skillet, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

• Cooking Tip: Make sure your pan is hot before adding the cod to get a nice, golden sear.
• Herb Substitutions: Fresh herbs add brightness to this dish, but you can substitute with dried herbs in a pinch. Use 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley and dill if fresh isn’t available.
• Side Suggestions: This cod pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes.