This Garlic Butter Cod recipe features tender cod loin pan-fried to a golden crisp and bathed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with fresh parsley and lemon juice. A quick and delicious seafood dish perfect for a simple yet elegant meal.
Author:Linda
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:2 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Western
Ingredients
Fish
280 g cod loin (boneless), skinless or skin-on
Butter Sauce
40 g butter (salted or unsalted)
1 tablespoon garlic, chopped
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cooking
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Bring cod to room temperature: Remove the cod loin from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
Pat dry: Thoroughly pat the cod dry with a kitchen paper towel to remove excess moisture. This is crucial to achieve a crispy crust when frying.
Season the fish: Season both sides of the cod with salt and black pepper according to taste.
Heat the pan: Place a skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil, and heat until the oil shimmers and is hot.
Pan-fry the cod: Carefully place the cod loin in the hot oil, skin side down if applicable. Do not move the fish to allow a golden, crispy crust to form. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
Flip carefully: Using a fish spatula, gently flip the cod over without breaking it. Continue cooking for another 3 minutes.
Remove fish (optional): Carefully remove the cod from the pan. This step is optional as the sauce preparation can be done in the same pan with the fish.
Prepare garlic butter sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter to the pan and melt it. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped parsley.
Baste the fish: Return the cooked cod to the pan and spoon the garlic butter sauce over the fish, allowing it to soak in the flavors for about 30 seconds.
Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish, remove from heat, and serve immediately. Enjoy with your favorite sides.
Notes
Bringing the fish to room temperature helps it cook evenly and prevents it from sticking to the pan.
Patting the cod dry is essential for a crispy crust and to prevent steaming.
Be gentle when flipping the fish to avoid breaking the delicate flesh.
You can use either salted or unsalted butter depending on your dietary preference.
This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.