If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal, then this Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is for you! This recipe brings together the delicate flavor of cod with a rich, buttery herb sauce. The cod is seared to perfection with a crispy golden exterior, while the herb-infused butter sauce adds freshness and depth to every bite. It’s an easy, yet impressive dish you can whip up in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

4 cod fillets (6 ounces each) Fresh, flaky cod fillets are the star of this dish. Cod is mild in flavor and cooks quickly, making it perfect for a light, healthy dinner.
2 tablespoons olive oil Olive oil is used to sear the cod, giving it a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste A simple seasoning of salt and pepper enhances the natural flavor of the cod without overpowering it.
4 ounces unsalted butter Butter makes the sauce rich and velvety, while still allowing the freshness of the herbs and lemon to shine through.
1 clove garlic, minced Garlic adds a subtle depth of flavor to the butter sauce, pairing beautifully with the lemon and herbs.
Juice of half a lemon Lemon juice brightens up the dish, adding a zesty tang that perfectly balances the richness of the butter.
3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped Parsley adds a vibrant, fresh flavor and a pop of green color to the dish.
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped Dill brings a mild, sweet, and grassy flavor that complements the delicate fish and buttery sauce.
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped Chives add a mild onion flavor, enhancing the overall freshness of the sauce.

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cod Fillets

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is important to ensure a nice golden sear.
Season both sides of the cod fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Cod

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot and shimmering, gently place the cod fillets in the pan, skin side down if applicable.
Cook the fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a deep golden-brown crust and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
Once done, remove the cod from the pan and set aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Herb Butter Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—you want all the flavors from the fish), lower the heat to medium and add the 4 ounces of unsalted butter.
Once the butter starts to melt, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the fresh parsley, dill, and chives. Let the herbs gently cook in the butter for about 1 minute, allowing their flavors to meld together.
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the pan, stirring the sauce to combine.

Step 4: Serve the Cod with Herb Butter Sauce

Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the herb butter sauce over each piece.
Let the fish warm up for 1-2 minutes in the sauce before removing from heat.
Plate the cod, generously drizzling the herb butter sauce over the top.

Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: Serve the golden seared cod with your favorite side dishes. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad. For a fresh burst of flavor, garnish with extra chopped herbs or a slice of lemon.
Storage: Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking the fish.

Helpful Notes:

Dry the Cod: Always pat the cod fillets dry before seasoning and searing. This helps to achieve a crispy, golden exterior.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the fish, ensure there’s enough space between the fillets so they cook evenly and develop a crust.
Low and Slow for the Sauce: When making the herb butter sauce, keep the heat low to prevent the garlic from burning and to ensure the butter doesn’t separate.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs:

Chef Gordon Ramsay: “When searing fish, press gently with a spatula right after placing it in the pan. This helps the fillet cook evenly and ensures it doesn’t curl up.”
Chef Julia Child: “Always cook with fresh herbs. They bring out the natural flavors of the dish and make a world of difference in sauces like this one.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1: Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
A1: Yes, but make sure to thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Q2: Can I substitute cod with another fish?
A2: Absolutely! Haddock, halibut, or sea bass are excellent alternatives that work well with this recipe.

Q3: How do I know when the cod is done?
A3: The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Q4: What can I serve with this dish?
A4: This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or even roasted potatoes. A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette is also a great option.

Q5: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A5: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or use olive oil for a lighter option.

Q6: How can I prevent the fish from sticking to the pan?
A6: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the cod and use enough oil. Don’t move the fillets too soon—let them sear for a few minutes to develop a crust before flipping.

Q7: Is this dish gluten-free?
A7: Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Q8: How long can I store the herb butter sauce?
A8: The herb butter sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in a skillet before serving.

Q9: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
A9: Fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried herbs if needed. Just reduce the amount by about half, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Q10: Can I add more garlic to the sauce?
A10: Of course! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for a more robust flavor.

This Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is a delicious, restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. The combination of a crisp sear and a luscious herb butter sauce makes for a balanced and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers satisfying results every time. Enjoy!