Go Back

Lemon Butter Cod

This lemon butter cod is a quick, flavorful dish featuring crispy, tender fish topped with a glossy, citrus-infused sauce. The bright lemon pairs perfectly with rich butter, creating a satisfying balance of textures and flavors that feels both comforting and celebratory. It’s ideal for weeknights when you want something simple yet special.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: French, Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets cod fillets preferably thick and flaky
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for sauce and frying
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice preferably freshly squeezed
  • 1 lemon lemon zest optional, for extra citrus aroma
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking the fish
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Spatula
  • Small saucepan
  • Plate

Method
 

  1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  2. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, until you smell a warm, aromatic aroma.
  3. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and, if using, add lemon zest. Simmer briefly until the sauce is fragrant and slightly thickened, then remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the cod fillets skin-side down if they have skin, pressing gently for even contact. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
  5. Flip the fillets carefully with a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The surface should be golden and crispy, and the interior tender and flaky.
  6. Transfer the cooked fillets to a warm plate. Spoon the warm lemon butter sauce over the top, allowing it to melt into the fish and create a glossy, flavorful coating.
  7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy the crispy, flaky fish with its bright, citrusy sauce for a simple yet elegant meal.

Notes

Ensure the pan is hot enough before adding the fish to achieve a crispy crust. Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor and adjust seasoning to taste. Rest the fish for a minute after cooking to retain juices.