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Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod


  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Description

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod features tender, flaky cod fillets infused with a zesty lemon and fragrant garlic plant-based butter sauce, enhanced by fresh herbs and a touch of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a special occasion, delivering vibrant flavors and a wholesome, dairy-free meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons plant-based butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped

Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)

Garnish (optional)

  • Extra fresh parsley and thyme
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small pan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Add finely minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and chopped fresh parsley and thyme. Let the flavors meld for a minute, then remove from heat.
  3. Sear the Cod: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place cod fillets skin-side down if skin is on and cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until a golden crust forms. Carefully flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
  4. Combine and Serve: Pour warm lemon garlic butter sauce over cooked cod just before serving to maintain fresh, vibrant flavors. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh cod for best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper searing.
  • Gently melt butter to avoid burning garlic.
  • Adjust lemon juice to taste for desired acidity.
  • Allow cooked fish to rest a couple of minutes before serving for juicier results.
  • Can prepare the lemon garlic butter sauce ahead and reheat gently before serving.
  • Leftovers keep fresh up to two days refrigerated; freeze up to one month if wrapped well.
  • Reheat in a low oven or gently on stove with a splash of water or broth and fresh lemon juice to refresh flavors.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Searing
  • Cuisine: Contemporary

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 320 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 33 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg

Keywords: cod, lemon, garlic, plant-based butter, quick dinner, seafood, dairy-free