Pan Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 2: Pan-Fry the Cod

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, ensuring the pan is evenly coated.
3. Place the cod fillets in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown.
4. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until the cod is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Transfer the cod to a plate and set aside while preparing the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth (or white wine) and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
4. Let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes, then stir in the chopped parsley and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Place the pan-fried cod fillets on a plate and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the top.
2. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon slices if desired.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Tips for the Best Pan-Fried Cod

• Use fresh cod fillets for the best texture and flavor.
• Make sure the pan is hot before adding the cod to get a nice golden crust.
• Be gentle when flipping the fish to prevent it from breaking apart.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream at the end.

Final Thoughts

Pan-fried cod with lemon butter sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The crispy cod combined with the zesty, buttery sauce makes this a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it once, and it might just become a favorite in your home!