Lemon Butter Pan-Seared Cod

Light and flaky cod with a delicate golden crust, finished in a smooth lemon butter sauce. This simple pan-seared cod recipe is elegant enough for guests yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The fresh lemon flavor balances the richness of the butter while garlic and parsley add depth and brightness.

Ready in less than 20 minutes, this dish is ideal when you want a quick seafood meal that still feels special.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
½ teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)
Zest of ½ lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon slices for garnish

Ingredient Details and Roles

Cod Fillets

Cod is a mild white fish with a tender, flaky texture. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, making it ideal for pan-searing. Fresh or fully thawed fillets work best.

Salt and Black Pepper

Basic seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it.

Paprika

Paprika adds gentle warmth and helps develop a light golden color during cooking.

Olive Oil

Olive oil helps create a crisp surface on the fish while preventing sticking.

Butter

Butter creates a rich and smooth sauce that complements the mild flavor of cod.

Garlic

Fresh garlic adds aroma and depth to the lemon butter sauce.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.

Lemon Zest

Lemon zest provides concentrated citrus flavor and freshness.

Fresh Parsley

Parsley adds color and a clean herbal finish.

Lemon Slices

Lemon slices enhance presentation and allow each person to adjust acidity to taste.

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