Description
This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets pan-seared in olive oil, sautéed with garlic and butter, then finished by baking in a zesty lemon, oregano, and garlic-infused sauce. It’s a simple yet flavorful seafood dish perfect for a quick and elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the cod fillets.
- Season Fish: Season both sides of the cod fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear Cod: In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and sear for about 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown to develop a flavorful crust.
- Flip Fillets: Carefully flip the fillets using a spatula to prepare for sautéing the garlic and butter.
- Add Butter and Garlic: Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Lemon and Seasonings: Pour the lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle the lemon zest, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes evenly over the fillets to impart bright and herbaceous flavors.
- Bake Cod: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, ensuring a moist, tender texture.
- Garnish: Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the cod fillets for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve: Serve immediately with lemon slices on the side for an additional bursts of citrus flavor and an attractive presentation.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes as suggested, but they are optional.
- Ensure not to overcook the cod to keep it moist and flaky.
- Use a large ovenproof skillet for easy stovetop to oven transition.
- Lemon zest adds brightness, so do not skip it if possible.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad.
