Description
This Pan Fried Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then cooked to perfection in olive oil and butter with a splash of lemon juice. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that yields a healthy and satisfying dinner for two.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 1 pound cod fillets
Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Optional Toppings
- Chopped fresh dill or parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the fish: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, pressing firmly to remove any excess water. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures a better sear.
- Mix seasoning blend: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, dried basil, garlic powder, dried oregano, and ground black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Season the cod: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the cod fillets. Pat down with your hands to help the spices adhere to the fish.
- Heat the skillet and start cooking: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned cod fillets and let cook undisturbed for 4 minutes to develop a golden crust.
- Flip and add butter and lemon: Carefully flip the fish, add the butter to the pan, and pour the lemon juice over the fillets.
- Continue cooking and baste: Cook for an additional 3 minutes, spooning the melted butter, olive oil, and lemon mixture over the fish to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Check doneness and serve: The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and an instant-read thermometer registers 145°F internally. Serve immediately with optional chopped fresh dill or parsley and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry before seasoning is essential for a good sear and crispy exterior.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in the finishing sauce.
- Be careful not to overcook the cod to keep it moist and tender.
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley add brightness and complement the lemony flavor.
- A nonstick skillet works great for easy flipping and preventing the fish from sticking.
