Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce

Introduction

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is an elegant and flavorful dish that combines tender, flaky cod with a rich and aromatic herb butter sauce. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe brings restaurant-quality dining to your home kitchen. Its simplicity and vibrant flavors make it a favorite among seafood lovers.

Overview of the Recipe

This dish starts with cod fillets seared to golden perfection, locking in their natural flavor and achieving a crispy, flavorful crust. The accompanying herb butter sauce, infused with garlic, fresh lemon juice, parsley, and thyme, adds depth and brightness to the dish. The combination of delicate cod and the velvety sauce is both satisfying and refreshing, ideal for pairing with a variety of sides.

History and Origin

Cod has been a staple in many coastal cuisines around the world, celebrated for its versatility and mild flavor. Historically, cod was a prized fish in Europe, especially in Nordic and British cuisines. Its popularity grew due to its abundance in the Atlantic and its suitability for preservation methods like drying and salting. This particular recipe, highlighting fresh herbs and butter, likely draws inspiration from classic French and Mediterranean cooking techniques that emphasize simple, high-quality ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Cod Fillets

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Herb Butter Sauce

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or a suitable white wine alternative)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

For Serving

• Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cod

1. Pat each cod fillet dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a crisp sear.
2. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Cod

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, gently place the cod fillets in the skillet.
3. Let the fillets sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes. The goal is to create a golden crust.
4. Carefully flip the fillets using a spatula. Cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a plate. Cover lightly with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Herb Butter Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
2. Once the butter has melted, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until fragrant.
3. Add 1/4 cup chicken broth and 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Stir the mixture, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and incorporate the browned bits for added flavor.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly for a concentrated flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate the Herbs

1. Stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme). Mix well to combine.

Step 5: Serve the Dish

1. Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the herb butter sauce generously over each piece.
2. Let the cod warm through in the sauce for 1-2 minutes.
3. Transfer the cod to serving plates, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce pairs wonderfully with:

• Vegetables: Steamed asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed spinach.
• Grains: A bed of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a wholesome base.
• Salads: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish complements beverages like sparkling water with lemon, herbal teas, or a refreshing citrus mocktail. These drinks enhance the citrusy undertones of the sauce without overpowering the delicate cod flavor.

Variations of the Recipe

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the herb butter sauce for a subtle kick.
• Garlic-Lemon Infusion: Double the amount of garlic and lemon juice for a more robust flavor.
• Different Fish: Substitute cod with halibut, haddock, or tilapia for a variation in texture and taste.
• Herb Blend: Swap parsley and thyme with dill, basil, or tarragon to experiment with herb combinations.

Health Benefits Notes

• Cod: Rich in lean protein, low in fat, and a good source of vitamins B6 and B12.
• Olive Oil: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
• Garlic: Known for its potential immune-boosting and heart-health benefits.
• Lemon: High in vitamin C and helps enhance the body’s absorption of iron.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

Q2: How do I know if the cod is cooked through?
Cooked cod will be opaque and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Q3: Can I make the herb butter sauce ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently over low heat.

Q4: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs can be used but reduce the quantity as they are more concentrated in flavor.

Q5: Can I bake the cod instead of searing it?
Yes, bake seasoned cod fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes and then drizzle with the herb butter sauce.

Conclusion

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is a versatile and delightful recipe that combines simplicity with gourmet flair. With its golden-crisp seared cod and zesty, buttery sauce, this dish is sure to impress at any meal. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors it brings to your table. Whether for a busy weeknight or an elegant dinner party, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is a delightful seafood recipe featuring tender cod fillets seared to perfection and topped with a buttery, herb-infused sauce. This easy dish is perfect for any occasion, combining simplicity with fresh and zesty flavors.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

• Prepare the Cod: Pat dry, season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Sear: Heat olive oil, cook cod for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and flaky. Remove from skillet.
• Make Sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and deglaze. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
• Add Herbs: Stir in parsley and thyme.
• Serve: Return cod to skillet, spoon sauce over, and warm for 1-2 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

• Ensure cod fillets are dry to get a proper sear.
• Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor, but dried herbs work in a pinch.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Pan-Searing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Nutrition

• Calories: 220 per serving
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Seared cod recipe, cod with butter sauce, easy cod dinner, lemon herb cod