Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This crispy panko cod recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated, and this recipe proves it. Get ready to experience perfectly flaky cod, coated in a golden-brown, crunchy panko crust – a truly delightful food recipe that's sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 4 (4-6 ounce) cod fillets, skin on or off
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your workspace. Ensure you have three shallow dishes ready: one for the flour, one for the beaten egg, and one for the panko bread crumbs.
Bread the Cod:
- Season the cod fillets generously with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured fillet into the beaten egg, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Finally, press the egg-coated fillet into the panko bread crumbs, making sure the crumbs adhere evenly. Gently press down to help the panko stick.
Cook the Cod:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the panko-crusted cod fillets in the hot skillet.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the cod is cooked through and the panko is golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the cooked cod from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh parsley, if desired. This easy recipe pairs well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Panko Cod:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy cod instead of crispy panko.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cod fillets will yield the best results.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
- Check for doneness: The cod is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork.
Variations:
- Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the panko bread crumbs for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Cod: Mix grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic into the panko bread crumbs for a flavorful twist.
- Lemon Herb Cod: Add chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme to the panko mixture along with lemon zest.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe offers a healthy and delicious meal option. Enjoy this quick and easy dinner, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying even the most discerning palates. It's a testament to how simple and delicious homemade cooking can be, transforming a simple cod fillet into a truly special dish. This healthy meal is a perfect example of the best recipes, easy to follow and packed with flavor!