11 Black Cod Recipes For Quick And Flavorful Dinners

Black cod, also known as sablefish or butterfish, is a true gem of the sea—rich, velvety, and loaded with heart-healthy omega-3s. Its naturally buttery texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor make it a versatile favorite for home cooks who want to put together a fast yet impressive meal. Whether you’re looking for a light weeknight dinner or a refined dish to serve guests, black cod delivers elegance without the fuss.

In this collection of 11 black cod recipes, you’ll find a mix of quick pan-seared techniques, savory marinades, and globally inspired flavors—from the famous miso-glazed classic made popular in fine dining restaurants to spicy grilled versions and simple oven bakes that require minimal prep. Each dish has been chosen to highlight black cod’s luxurious texture while keeping your dinner routine stress-free and flavorful.

You don’t need a culinary degree to make these recipes shine—just a few fresh ingredients, a little time, and an appetite for something delicious. Whether you prefer Asian-inspired glazes, Mediterranean herbs, or comforting broths, these recipes will help you turn this prized fish into your new weeknight staple.

Teriyaki Black Cod with Soba Noodles

Teriyaki Black Cod with Soba Noodles is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of black cod and the satisfying texture of soba noodles. The teriyaki glaze adds a sweet and savory touch that perfectly complements the buttery fish. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

The combination of tender black cod and slurp-worthy noodles creates a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 8 oz soba noodles
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, coat the black cod fillets with teriyaki sauce. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Fish: Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated black cod and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and caramelized.
4. Combine: Toss the cooked soba noodles with the remaining teriyaki sauce and season with salt and pepper. Serve the noodles topped with the black cod, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Black Cod en Papillote with Lemon and Dill

This Black Cod en Papillote is a simple yet elegant dish that brings out the best flavors of the fish. The combination of lemon and dill adds a fresh, zesty touch that perfectly complements the rich, buttery texture of the cod. Cooking it in parchment paper keeps the fish moist and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also makes for a stunning presentation. Just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parchment paper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut two large pieces of parchment paper and place a fillet on each piece.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and season with salt and pepper.
4. Top each fillet with lemon slices and sprinkle with fresh dill.
5. Fold the parchment paper over the fish, sealing the edges to create a packet.
6. Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Carefully open the packets (watch out for steam) and serve immediately.

Black Cod Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These Black Cod Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a delightful twist on a classic dish. The rich, buttery flavor of black cod pairs perfectly with the fresh and creamy avocado salsa, making each bite a burst of taste. Plus, this recipe is quick and easy to whip up, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that feels special. The combination of grilled fish, crunchy cabbage, and zesty salsa is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 corn tortillas
• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the black cod fillets.
2. Grill the Fish: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. Make the Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice. Gently mix to combine.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. Layer shredded cabbage on each tortilla, followed by a piece of grilled black cod and a generous scoop of avocado salsa.
5. Serve: Enjoy your tacos with extra lime wedges on the side!

Spicy Black Cod Stir-Fry with Vegetables

This Spicy Black Cod Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a healthy dinner. The black cod is tender and flaky, perfectly complemented by the vibrant colors and crunch of fresh vegetables. With a kick of spice, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds while being simple enough for a weeknight meal.

In just a few steps, you can whip up this flavorful stir-fry that combines the rich taste of black cod with the freshness of bell peppers and broccoli. It’s a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chili paste
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili paste. Add the black cod fillets and let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a large pan over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant, then add the bell pepper and broccoli. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Cook the Fish: Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the marinated black cod. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
4. Serve: Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds. Enjoy your meal!

Lemon Herb Black Cod with Quinoa Salad

This Lemon Herb Black Cod with Quinoa Salad is a delightful dish that’s both fresh and satisfying. The cod is perfectly seasoned with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs, making it a tasty option for a quick dinner. Paired with a colorful quinoa salad, it offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures.

Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also packs a nutritious punch. The quinoa salad is loaded with fresh vegetables, making it a healthy choice for any night of the week. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this meal!

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small zucchini, diced
• 1/2 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cod: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat the black cod fillets in this mixture and let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil, add the quinoa, cover, and reduce heat. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add zucchini and green beans, cooking for about 5 minutes until tender. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Cook the Cod: In a separate skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated black cod fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Assemble the Salad: Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and mix in the sautéed vegetables. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve: Plate the quinoa salad and top with the lemon herb black cod. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Black Cod and Coconut Curry with Jasmine Rice

This Black Cod and Coconut Curry is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and a comforting texture. The black cod, known for its buttery taste, pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to tackle. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious and hearty meal that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 lb black cod, cut into chunks
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• 2 cups jasmine rice
• Water, for cooking rice

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine rice and water (1 cup rice to 1.5 cups water). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until rice is tender.
2. Prepare the Curry: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add red curry paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add Vegetables: Add sliced red bell pepper and snap peas to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Add Black Cod: Gently add the black cod chunks to the curry. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
5. Finish and Serve: Stir in lime juice and remove from heat. Serve the curry over jasmine rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Miso Glazed Black Cod with Sautéed Bok Choy

This Miso Glazed Black Cod is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with a touch of sweetness. The black cod, known for its buttery texture, is perfectly complemented by the savory miso glaze. Paired with sautéed bok choy, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying.

Making this dish is straightforward, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The balance of flavors and textures will impress anyone at your dinner table, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again.

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 1/4 cup miso paste
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 2 tablespoons sake
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 cups bok choy, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix miso paste, mirin, sake, sugar, and soy sauce until smooth. Coat the black cod fillets in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Sauté the Bok Choy: In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bok choy and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Cod: In the same skillet, add the marinated black cod fillets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and has a nice glaze.
4. Serve: Plate the black cod alongside the sautéed bok choy. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish and enjoy your delicious meal!

Grilled Black Cod with Garlic Butter

Grilled Black Cod with Garlic Butter is a delightful dish that brings out the rich, buttery flavor of the fish. The combination of garlic and butter enhances the natural taste, making each bite melt in your mouth. This recipe is simple to prepare, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

The grilling process adds a lovely char, while the garlic butter sauce keeps the fish moist and flavorful. Serve it alongside some fresh asparagus for a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes!

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for grilling
• Fresh asparagus, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Season the Fish: Pat the black cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the Cod: Place the fillets on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and grill for another 3-4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
5. Add Garlic Butter: In the last minute of cooking, spoon the garlic butter over the fish, allowing it to melt and infuse flavor.
6. Serve: Remove the cod from the grill and serve with fresh asparagus on the side, drizzling any remaining garlic butter over the top.

Black Cod Caesar Salad with Croutons

This Black Cod Caesar Salad is a delightful twist on the classic dish. The rich, buttery flavor of the black cod pairs perfectly with the crisp greens and crunchy croutons, making it a satisfying meal. It’s simple to prepare, so you can whip it up in no time!

The combination of fresh ingredients and the savory dressing creates a refreshing yet hearty salad. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a light lunch, this recipe delivers on taste and ease.

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the black cod fillets with salt and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil. Place them on the baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. While the cod is baking, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Once the cod is cooked, let it cool slightly before flaking it into large pieces. Add the flaked cod to the salad.
5. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Herb-Crusted Black Cod with Roasted Vegetables

This herb-crusted black cod is a delightful dish that brings together tender fish and vibrant roasted vegetables. The cod is coated with fresh herbs, giving it a bright flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the veggies. It’s simple to make, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.

The combination of flaky fish and colorful roasted vegetables creates a satisfying meal that feels both healthy and indulgent. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, so cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients

• 2 black cod fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, parsley, thyme, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat the black cod fillets with this herb mixture.
3. On a baking sheet, arrange the halved baby potatoes, sliced carrots, and green beans. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Place the herb-crusted cod on top of the vegetables and add lemon slices around.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!

Smoky Black Cod Chowder with Potatoes

This Smoky Black Cod Chowder is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and rich flavors. The tender black cod pairs beautifully with hearty potatoes, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its smoky undertones and a hint of freshness from herbs, this chowder is both satisfying and easy to whip up.

Making this chowder is a breeze, even for those who may not spend much time in the kitchen. In just under an hour, you can enjoy a warm bowl of this delicious chowder that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium potatoes, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound black cod, cut into chunks
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Allow to simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Gently add the black cod and corn, cooking until the fish is opaque and flakes easily, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your warm, smoky chowder!

Final Thoughts
If you’ve never cooked black cod before, now’s the time to dive in. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these 11 recipes prove that quick dinners can still feel indulgent. Try one tonight and discover why black cod deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.