Weeknight dinners just got easier! Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and incredibly quick meal that's also impressive? Look no further than this pan-seared cod recipe. This easy recipe delivers flaky, perfectly cooked cod with a beautiful sear, ready in under 20 minutes. It’s a fantastic option for a healthy meal, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea but don't want to sacrifice flavor. This homemade cooking method is a winner, even for beginner cooks!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) cod fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the cod fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Flip and Finish
Flip the cod fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 4: Add Lemon & Garnish
Remove the cod from the skillet and drizzle with lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pan-Seared Cod:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have more than two fillets, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Use high-quality olive oil: A good olive oil will enhance the flavor of your cod.
- Don't move the fish: Resist the urge to move the cod around in the pan during the initial sear. This will help create a nice crust.
- Check for doneness: The best way to check if your cod is cooked through is to gently flake it with a fork. It should flake easily without being mushy.
Delicious Variations:
- Mediterranean Cod: Add a sprinkle of oregano and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend for a little kick.
- Garlic Herb Cod: Sauté some minced garlic in the olive oil before adding the cod. Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary at the end.
- Lemon Butter Cod: After removing the cod, add a tablespoon of butter and a squeeze of lemon juice to the pan and swirl to create a delicious sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
This pan-seared cod recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. The combination of flaky cod, crispy skin, and bright lemon juice is simply irresistible. This recipe showcases the ease and deliciousness of homemade cooking, creating a healthy and satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!