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Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe


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4.8 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Mediterranean cod bathes in a zesty lemon butter sauce, bringing coastal Italian flavors to your dinner table. Quick and elegant, this dish offers restaurant-quality comfort with simple ingredients that elevate weeknight cooking.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound cod

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 pound cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 3 green onions, sliced and divided (whites and greens)
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon basil, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Warm a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzling olive oil and melting butter to create a flavorful cooking base.
  2. Carefully season the cod fillets with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage for maximum taste profile.
  3. Gently place cod into the heated skillet, allowing each side to develop a golden-brown crust, approximately 2-3 minutes per surface.
  4. Transfer the perfectly cooked cod to a separate plate, preserving its delicate texture.
  5. Introduce cherry tomatoes into the same skillet, letting them sizzle and blister, creating caramelized edges and intense flavor.
  6. Reduce cooking temperature to medium and add minced garlic, sliced green onion whites, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for aromatic complexity.
  7. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, creating a simmering liquid that will form the sauce’s foundation.
  8. Allow the broth to reduce and concentrate, developing deeper flavor notes for approximately 3 minutes.
  9. Brighten the sauce with freshly squeezed lemon juice and a final pat of butter, whisking to create a silky, balanced emulsion.
  10. Return cod fillets to the skillet, nestling them gently into the vibrant sauce.
  11. Garnish with green onion tops, chopped parsley, and delicate basil leaves for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
  12. Serve immediately, allowing the harmonious blend of flavors to shine.

Notes

  • Master this quick seafood dish perfect for busy weeknights with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.
  • Technique matters most when cooking delicate cod, ensuring golden edges and tender center without overcooking.
  • Fresh herbs and bright lemon transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in under 20 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg