Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy lemon cod with linguine recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's packed with flavor, perfect for a satisfying and healthy meal. This easy recipe is a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both quick and incredibly rewarding. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 1 pound cod fillets, skin on or off
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod
While the pasta is cooking, pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan (Optional)
If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate. If omitting the wine, proceed directly to the next step.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Cook the Cod
Add the cod fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the cod in batches.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy lemon sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Stir in the fresh parsley. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the cod: Overcooked cod will be dry and tough. Cook it just until it's opaque and flakes easily.
- Use fresh lemon zest: Fresh lemon zest adds a bright, vibrant flavor that you won't get from bottled lemon juice.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more lemon juice, lemon zest, or Parmesan cheese to suit your preferences.
- Add vegetables: Enhance this dish further by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano.
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: Replace the heavy cream with a can of crushed tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This creamy lemon cod with linguine is a quick, easy, and delicious dinner that's perfect for a weeknight meal. The combination of flaky cod, creamy lemon sauce, and perfectly cooked linguine is simply irresistible! It's a healthy and satisfying choice that will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy!