Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal that won't keep you stuck in the kitchen all evening? Then look no further! This pan-seared cod recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic example of how quick dinner ideas can be both delicious and nutritious, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) cod fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear. Excess moisture prevents browning.
Sear the Cod:
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Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The butter adds richness and flavor to the sear.
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Season the cod fillets generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Carefully place the cod fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets). Sear for 3-4 minutes undisturbed, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
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Flip the fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. Remember, it’s better to slightly undercook than overcook.
Finish and Serve:
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Remove the cod from the skillet and drizzle with lemon juice.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Pan-Seared Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have more than two fillets, cook them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Check for doneness: The fish should flake easily with a fork. Overcooked cod will be dry and tough.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Cod: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano to the skillet along with the butter.
- Garlic Butter Cod: Increase the amount of garlic powder or add a few minced cloves of fresh garlic to the butter.
- Mediterranean Cod: Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and sprinkle of dried oregano and chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
This pan-seared cod recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a quick dinner idea that delivers big on flavor and nutrition. Enjoy this delicious dish, and remember to share your culinary creations with friends and family! Happy cooking!