Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – ready in 25–30 minutes
- Light and healthy – packed with protein and fresh flavors
- Beautifully golden crust – achieved with just a quick sear
- Versatile and crowd-pleasing – pairs well with many sides
- Perfect for any season – bright and fresh, yet comforting
Ingredients
For the Seared Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Herb Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce
✅ 1. Prep the Cod
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
✅ 2. Sear the Cod
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add cod fillets skin-side (or presentation-side) down.
- Sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
- Flip gently and cook another 2–3 minutes until opaque and flakes easily.
- Transfer to a warm plate and tent with foil.
✅ 3. Make the Herb Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
- Add butter and melt. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add lemon juice and zest. Simmer for 1 minute.
- Stir in herbs and season with salt and pepper.
✅ 4. Serve
- Spoon herb butter sauce generously over the cod fillets.
- Garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges.
- Serve immediately.
️ Perfect Pairings
Complement the delicate flavor of cod with these delicious sides:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
- Steamed asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach
- Rice pilaf or couscous
- Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce
Pro Tips
- Dry the cod well – this helps achieve a crispy, golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – sear in batches if needed.
- Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine for extra depth.
Wine Pairing
- A crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- For a buttery flavor profile, try a lightly oaked Chardonnay
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or extra butter.
- Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
A Seafood Masterpiece in Minutes
Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauceis a sublime example of how minimalism in cooking can lead to maximum impact. The golden sear locks in moisture and flavor, while the herb butter sauce adds richness and brightness that elevate the dish from simple to sensational.