Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce is a classic and elegant dish that brings out the delicate flavour of fresh cod loins. This recipe is perfect for a quick midweek dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

The combination of crispy skin and tender, flaky fish, complemented by a rich and tangy lemon butter sauce, makes this dish a favourite among seafood lovers. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Recommended: Farmed Norwegian Salmon Fillets

Ingredients

• 4 skin-on cod loins, about 170-230 grams each
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions for Cooking Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce:

1. Prepare the Cod Loins:

• Pat the cod loins dry with kitchen roll.
• Generously season both sides of the cod loins with salt and pepper.

2. Heat the Pan:

• Heat the olive oil in a large, non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.

3. Cook the Cod Loins:

• Carefully place the cod loins in the pan, skin-side down. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure the skin makes good contact with the pan.
• Cook the cod for 4-5 minutes without moving it, allowing the skin to become crispy and golden.
• Using a fish spatula, carefully flip the cod loins over. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

4. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same pan.
• Once the butter has melted, add the finely chopped garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
• Add the lemon juice and zest to the pan, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 2 minutes, letting the flavours meld together.

5. Combine and Serve:

• Return the cod loins to the pan, spooning the lemon butter sauce over the top to coat them.
• Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the fish and allow it to absorb the sauce.

6. Garnish and Present:

• Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the cod loins for a burst of colour and freshness.
• Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra touch of citrus..

Serving Suggestions:

• This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a light salad.
• For a more substantial meal, consider serving the cod loins with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy quinoa salad.

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the fish is thoroughly dried before seasoning to help achieve a crispy skin.
• Use a non-stick pan to prevent the skin from sticking and tearing.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and result in uneven cooking.

This detailed recipe should help anyone create a delicious and elegant Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce.

Conclusion

Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce is not only a delightful and satisfying dish but also a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. The crispy skin and succulent flesh of the cod, paired with the bright and buttery sauce, create a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.

Whether served with a side of steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to impress and become a regular favourite in your cooking. Enjoy the taste of gourmet dining with this easy-to-follow recipe and savour the delightful experience of homemade elegance.