Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the ocean to your kitchen. This recipe features flaky, tender cod fillets, perfectly broiled to golden perfection, then drizzled with a luscious, zesty lemon butter garlic sauce. It’s an easy yet elegant meal that can impress family and friends alike, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is a standout for multiple reasons. First, the combination of flavors is simply irresistible—zesty lemon, rich butter, and aromatic garlic meld beautifully to highlight the mild flavor of the cod. Secondly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare; you can have this dish ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it aligns well with health-conscious diets, being low in calories and high in protein, making it a perfect fit for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.
Tips and Tricks
To make the most of this dish, here are a few helpful tips:
- Use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Frozen fillets can work, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- For an extra burst of flavor, let the cod marinate in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 15 minutes before broiling.
- Keep an eye on the cod while it broils; fish cooks quickly and can go from perfectly done to overcooked in a matter of minutes.
- Consider adding a touch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a hint of spice.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who love to meal prep, you can prepare the lemon butter garlic sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also season the cod fillets ahead of time, allowing them to absorb the flavors. Just make sure to cook them fresh, as reheating fish can lead to a rubbery texture.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is versatile! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Substitute the cod with other firm white fish like haddock or halibut.
- For a vegetarian version, try using thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms brushed with the lemon butter sauce.
- Add herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme to the sauce for an herby twist.
- Instead of broiling, you can grill the cod for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon butter sauce.
How to Serve
Serve your broiled cod on a warm plate, drizzling the lemon butter garlic sauce generously over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of color. Pair it with a side of steamed asparagus or a light garden salad for a refreshing balance.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement your Broiled Cod, consider serving it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water infused with lemon would be refreshing. On the side, roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes would make fantastic accompaniments, while a light fruit sorbet would serve as a delightful dessert to round out the meal.
How to Store
Leftover broiled cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Freezing is not recommended for cooked cod as it can alter the texture, but the lemon butter garlic sauce can be frozen for up to a month and reheated when needed.
Equipment Needed
You will need a broiler-safe baking dish or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. A whisk for mixing the sauce and a sharp knife for filleting the fish may also be beneficial. No special equipment is necessary, but a meat thermometer can help ensure your fish is cooked perfectly.
Dietary Adaptations
For those following specific dietary needs:
- To make the dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure all your ingredients (like any seasonings) are certified gluten-free.
- For a low-carb version, serve the cod over sautéed zucchini noodles instead of pasta or rice.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to the lemon butter sauce for a vibrant twist. In fall and winter, swap in roasted garlic for a deeper flavor or add a touch of smoked paprika for warmth.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe? Yes, just ensure it is completely thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
What if I don’t have a broiler? You can use a regular oven set to a high temperature or grill the cod on a barbecue.
How can I tell when the cod is done? The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s fully cooked.
How To Make Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce
Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the ocean to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your broiler to high and prepare a broiler-safe baking dish or line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Place the cod fillets in the baking dish and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest, mixing well. Remove from heat.
- Spoon half of the lemon butter garlic sauce over the cod fillets, reserving the rest for serving.
- Broil the cod for about 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod from the oven and drizzle the remaining sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 339Total Fat 13gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 130mgSodium 254mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 1gSugar 8gProtein 42g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Broiled Cod with Lemon Butter Garlic Sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table. With its simplicity and elegance, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite!
