There’s nothing quite like that feeling when you come home after a busy day and crave a meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. This golden seared cod with herb butter sauce is exactly that — a dish that brings together tender, flaky cod and a rich, flavorful butter sauce, all in a matter of minutes. Cod, with its delicate and mild taste, is perfect for those who want a light yet satisfying dinner. The herb butter sauce elevates the fish, adding a luxurious touch without being overly heavy. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet light enough to enjoy on a regular basis.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or just treating yourself to something special, this dish fits the bill. Pair it with a side of mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal. What’s even better is that this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with your favorite sides, whether that’s roasted vegetables, greens, or a hearty slice of bread to soak up the buttery sauce.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, snipped
Directions
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Carefully place the cod fillets in the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes on one side, until the underside is a crisp golden brown.
- Gently flip the cod using a spatula and cook for another 3 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate tented with foil.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and garlic, cooking until the butter has melted and the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, dill, and chives.
- Spoon the herb butter sauce over the warm cod fillets and serve immediately.
Variations & Tips
- If you’re not a fan of cod, try substituting it with halibut or tilapia for a similar light, flaky texture.
- For an added zing, grate some fresh lemon zest into the herb butter sauce.
- If you’re in a pinch for time, dried herbs can be used, but use them sparingly since they have a more concentrated flavor than fresh herbs.
- This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated gently in the oven.
Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations
Cod is a low-calorie fish, rich in protein, making it a great option for those looking to maintain or build lean muscle. The omega-3 fatty acids in cod support heart health and are beneficial for overall wellness. While the butter sauce provides a rich, indulgent touch, it’s important to remember that this dish can be lighter if you control the amount of butter used. For those who prefer a dairy-free or lighter version, substituting the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative works beautifully.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If you tried this golden seared cod with herb butter sauce, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Your comments and feedback are always appreciated, as they inspire others to try new recipes and make adjustments that suit their tastes. Sharing your experience helps build a wonderful cooking community!