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Pan-seared cod fillet with lemon butter sauce
Pan-SearedAtlantic Cod

Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod

Perfectly crispy pan-seared cod with a light lemon butter sauce. A simple weeknight dinner that tastes gourmet.

Prep: 5 min · Cook: 10 min
Servings:4
Easy
Mercury (reference): Very Low

Ingredients

For 4 servings

  • 4 fillets (6 oz each) Cod fillets
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons Butter
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (chopped)
  • for garnish Lemon slices

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (1 cod fillet (6 oz))

Calories280
Protein
32g
Fat
13g
Carbs
7g
Omega-3
0.3g

Total for 4 servings: 1120 cal · 128g protein

For informational and journaling purposes only. Results are estimates based on published nutrition databases and may not match your specific food.

Instructions

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 10 min

  1. 1

    Pat cod fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a crispy crust.

  2. 2

    Season both sides of fish with salt, pepper, and paprika.

  3. 3

    Lightly dust both sides with flour, shaking off excess.

  4. 4

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  5. 5

    Carefully place cod fillets in the pan, presentation side down first. Don't move them!

  6. 6

    Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully.

  7. 7

    Cook the other side for 3-4 minutes until fish reaches 145°F internally and flakes easily.

  8. 8

    Remove fish to a plate. Reduce heat to medium.

  9. 9

    In the same pan, add butter and garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  10. 10

    Add lemon juice and parsley. Swirl to combine. Remove from heat.

  11. 11

    Pour lemon butter sauce over fish. Garnish with lemon slices and serve immediately.

Cooking tips

  • Make sure your pan is hot before adding the fish for a perfect crust.
  • Don't flip the fish too early—it will naturally release when it's ready.
  • Cod is a delicate fish, so use a thin spatula and flip gently.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.