Pan-Fried Cod in Lemon Butter Sauce: A Quick and Delicious Delight

By Dr. Cindy Tanzar

When it comes to preparing a meal that’s both quick and incredibly tasty, my go-to recipe has to be Pan-Fried Cod in Lemon Butter Sauce. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but is also impressively simple to whip up. Cod boasts a mild taste and a firm texture that beautifully complements the rich lemon butter sauce, making it a perfect candidate for any weeknight dinner or special gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Pan-Fried Cod Recipe

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While I recommend using wild-caught cod for its superior flavor and health benefits, feel free to substitute with your favorite wild-caught fish, whether it’s salmon, tilapia, or halibut. I often purchase frozen wild-caught cod from Sam’s Club, which is conveniently packaged individually, ensuring that I always have a healthy meal option ready to go.

It’s crucial to opt for wild-caught fish instead of farm-raised varieties to steer clear of unwanted antibiotic and pesticide residues that can compromise your meal’s health factor.

Additionally, this recipe incorporates ghee, a clarified butter that is free from milk proteins and offers a higher smoke point. You can find ghee at most health food stores and some local grocery stores, making it easy to elevate your cooking.

Servings: Makes 2 servings.

Ingredients

Seasoning Mix (makes 6 servings)

• 1/2 tsp. pink Himalayan salt
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 3/4 tsp. paprika
• 1/4 tsp. garlic powder

For the Cod

• 2 fresh or thawed wild-caught cod fillets
• 1 Tbsp. ghee (clarified butter) or Kerrygold butter

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

• 2 Tbsp. ghee (clarified butter) or Kerrygold butter
• 1 lemon, halved
• 2 Tbsp. sliced almonds (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Fish: Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a proper sear, as excess moisture will result in the fish steaming rather than browning. Next, sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over both sides of the fish.
2. Heat the Pan: In a stainless-steel pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium-high heat. If you’re using Kerrygold butter, opt for medium heat to prevent burning the fat.
3. Cook the Cod: Once the pan is hot, add the cod fillets to the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 2 minutes. Next, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking on the same side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking: Using a spatula, carefully flip the fish and cook for 2 more minutes or until the cod is cooked through. It should flake easily with a fork. Once done, transfer the fish to a plate and keep warm.
5. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of ghee (or Kerrygold butter). If you’re including the almonds, add them in now and briefly sauté until they are just golden. Squeeze the juice from half of the lemon into the pan, using your spatula to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This will create a luscious sauce to drizzle over your fish.
6. Serve: Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the cooked cod, and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Wrapping Up

Whip up this Pan-Fried Cod in Lemon Butter Sauce for a dinner that feels both indulgent and health-conscious. With its delightful flavors and effortless prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Pair it with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that will leave you and your loved ones satisfied. Happy cooking!