Description
This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Cod recipe features tender cod fillets cooked in a rich and tangy lemon-parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick and elegant dinner, the recipe balances mild white fish with a luscious, garlicky sauce enhanced by fresh parsley and Italian seasoning.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 1 pound cod, cut into 4 equal pieces
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Flour, for dredging (about 1/2 tablespoon plus extra)
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Let the cod sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking. Cut the fish into four equal pieces. Season each piece with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the Cod: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and cook for approximately 2 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Carefully transfer the cooked cod to a plate, as the fish can be delicate and break apart easily.
- Cool the Skillet: Remove the skillet from heat for a minute to cool slightly before making the sauce, preventing the butter from burning.
- Make the Sauce Base: Return the skillet to medium heat and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. When melted, stir in the minced garlic and 1/2 tablespoon flour. Cook for about one minute to develop flavor while stirring continuously.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Scrape up any browned bits from the pan’s bottom to incorporate into the sauce, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Incorporate Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley until well combined and creamy.
- Finish Cooking Cod in Sauce: Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Let the fish finish cooking in the sauce for a few minutes, being careful not to overcook, especially if the pieces are thin. The cod should flake easily with a fork. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper as desired, then serve.
Notes
- Allowing the cod to sit at room temperature before cooking helps it cook evenly.
- Be gentle when handling the cod, as it is delicate and can break apart easily.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture in the sauce.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of milk or additional cream.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
