Description
Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. With fresh lemon, sweet orange, and aromatic basil combined into a rich, buttery sauce, this cod recipe will become a new favorite. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve with vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a balanced, delicious meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Season and Sear the Cod: Season both sides of the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook cod fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and easily flaking with a fork. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Citrus Basil Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, orange juice, and zests, allowing the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly (about 2-3 minutes).
- Combine and Serve: Add chopped basil to the sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Return the cod to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the fillets, and let cook for an additional minute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitutions: Swap cod with other firm white fish like halibut or haddock.
- For Extra Heat: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet with sauce
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Pan-Fried Cod, Citrus Basil Butter Sauce, Quick Fish Recipe, Weeknight Dinner