Pan-Fried Cod in a Citrus Basil Butter Sauce

There’s nothing quite like the vibrant, zesty flavors of this Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce. It’s a beautiful balance of fresh lemon, sweet orange, and aromatic basil, all brought together in a rich butter sauce. I’m already daydreaming about how this dish filled my kitchen with the most incredible aroma — citrusy and buttery, all at once! Trust me, this is a 20-minute meal you won’t forget anytime soon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Delightfully Simple: Quick to make but packed with gourmet-level flavors.
• Perfectly Balanced: The buttery richness of the cod pairs perfectly with the fresh, zesty citrus flavors.
• Versatile: This dish can be served with anything from a light salad to roasted veggies, making it an excellent weeknight dinner or a special occasion treat.
• Healthy & Light: With a good source of lean protein and minimal added fat, this meal is as nutritious as it is delicious!

The Flavors You Can Expect

The tender, flaky cod absorbs the citrus butter sauce like a sponge, giving every bite a burst of lemon, orange, and fresh basil. The garlic infuses a subtle depth, while the butter adds a luxurious silkiness to the sauce. It’s bright, aromatic, and comforting all in one — a dish that hits all the right notes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 cod fillets
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 orange, juiced and zested
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Necessary Tools:

• Large skillet
• Citrus zester
• Spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Substitutions and Additions

• Fish Substitutions: If cod isn’t available, you can easily substitute with other firm white fish like haddock, halibut, or even sea bass.
• Herbs: If you’re out of basil, try fresh parsley or cilantro for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Zing It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like your dishes with a spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season and Sear the Cod:

• Season both sides of the cod fillets with salt and pepper.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the cod fillets to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they develop a golden crust and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside.

2. Prepare the Citrus Basil Butter Sauce:

• In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt gently, then add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
• Stir in the fresh lemon juice, orange juice, and both zests. Let this mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes to slightly reduce.
• Toss in the chopped basil and stir to combine. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.

3. Combine and Serve:

• Return the cod fillets to the skillet, and spoon the luscious citrus basil butter sauce over them.
• Let the flavors meld together for another minute, then garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

What to Serve with Your Citrus Cod

This dish is incredibly versatile, so here are a few great pairing ideas:

• Steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a light side.
• A fluffy rice pilaf or simple quinoa for a wholesome grain option.
• For a low-carb version, serve it with a crisp green salad or roasted cauliflower.

Tips for Making Perfect Pan-Fried Cod

1. Pat the fish dry: Before seasoning the cod, pat it dry with a paper towel to help achieve that beautiful sear.
2. Don’t overcook: Cod can become tough if overcooked, so keep an eye on the fillets and test for doneness by gently flaking with a fork.
3. Zesting tip: When zesting your citrus, be sure to only remove the bright outer layer of the skin. The white pith beneath can be bitter.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cod is best reheated gently in a skillet over low heat.
• Freezing: While fresh cod is ideal, you can freeze this dish after cooking. Be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cod?
A: Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Pat it dry to remove any excess moisture for the best sear.

Q: How do I know when my cod is done?
A: Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. It should also be opaque all the way through.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the citrus basil butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, gently reheat it in a skillet before adding the fish.

In Summary

This Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce is one of those recipes that will have you coming back for more. It’s bright, fresh, and feels fancy without all the fuss. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new go-to dinner idea, this one is a must-try! Plus, it’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but elegant enough for date night.

More Recipes Featuring Bright Citrus Flavors:

• Red Snapper in a Velvety Lemon Cream Sauce
• Spicy Baked Cajun Catfish and Shrimp with Zesty Lemon Butter
• Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

Have you tried this recipe? I’d love to see how yours turned out! Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest!

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