Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce 

Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce 🐟🍋

Flaky, golden cod fillets bathed in a silky lemon-garlic butter sauce—elevate weeknight dinners with this 15-minute, restaurant-worthy dish!

Ingredients (2 servings)

For the Cod:

• 2 fresh cod fillets (6-8 oz each), patted dry

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (or regular)

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about ½ lemon)

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

• 1 tsp capers (optional, for briny tang)

Instructions

1. Season & Sear the Cod:

1. Season fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika, then lightly dust with flour.

2. Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Cook cod 3-4 minutes per side until golden and flaky (internal temp: 145°F/63°C). Transfer to a plate.

2. Make the Sauce:

1. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Pour in broth and lemon juice, simmering 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

4. Stir in lemon zest, parsley, and capers (if using).

3. Finish & Serve:

• Return cod to the pan, spooning sauce over it. Warm for 1 minute.

• Garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a crisp arugula salad.

• Wine pairing: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

💡 Pro Tips:

✅ For extra crispiness, use a mix of butter + oil when searing.
✅ No broth? Substitute with white wine or water + a squeeze of lemon.
✅ Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.

This dish is light yet luxurious, with a sauce so good you’ll want to drink it! 😍

Variation: Swap cod for halibut or salmon—equally delicious!