Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce Recipe
What is pan-fried cod? Is it like a little burst of sunshine on the plate, even in the darkest of days? I remember the first time I made it. My picky-eater nephew actually asked for seconds, which, let’s be honest, is practically a culinary. What’s better than mac and cheese? Think of it like the fish version of chicken piccata, but brighter, fresher and with that same flavor. What is it like to have basil in your mouth? What is the best part? What is the best pan-fried cod recipe in under 30 minutes? What is the best weeknight dinner?
What is Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce?
What is magic? What’s essentially perfectly pan-fried cod fillets, cooked until flaky and golden brown, then fried until crispy. What is a sauce made with butter? ), fresh basil, and a generous squeeze of citrus – usually lemon, but I’ve been known to use lime or lime lime. What’s hanging out in the fruit bowl? What is a quick and flavorful way to elevate humble cod into something truly special? What is Mediterranean sunshine on a plate? Is this the kind of dish that feels fancy but is secretly super easy – my type of recipe!
Why you will love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this **Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce Recipe** is its incredible flavor. Balance of flavors. The cod is mild and flaky, which means it’s just a perfect canvas for the bright and zesty sauce. What does basil add to the herbaceous aroma? What is the richness of butter? It’s just… *chef kiss*.
Why do I fall in love with a flavor? If you can melt butter and squeeze a lemon, you could make this. Is it so cost effective? Is cod a cheap fish? What are pantry staples? Plus, it’s endlessly versatile! Can you serve it with pasta, rice, roasted veggies, or just a salad? What are some of the best recipes to make every day? It’s similar in ease to a basic lemon butter chicken, but the cod offers such an easier, lighter, fresher flavor. Alternative, especially during the warmer months. Is it true that I am wrong?
How do I make Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce Recipe?
Quick Overview
What is the best way to make Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce? First, you’ll gently pat the cod fillets dry and season them with salt and pepper. If you’re going to cook a chicken breast in olive oil, you can pan fry it until golden brown. While the cod is cooking, you’ll whip up the lemon basil butter sauce in the same pan. What can I do in 30 minutes?
Ingredients Notes Food
For the Cod:
• Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen (thawed). I prefer thicker fillets if I can find them. What are some tips for a good sear?
• Olive Oil: For pan frying. You can also use avocado oil or your favorite cooking oil.
• Salt and pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
What is the recipe for Citrus Basil Butter Sauce?
• Butter: Unsalted. This is the base of the sauce, so use good quality butter if you can.
• Fresh Basil: A generous handful, chopped. The fresher, the better!
• Garlic: Minced. Adds a nice depth of flavor to the sauce. I’m a garlic fanatic, so I usually add 2 teaspoons.
• Lemon (or Lime or Orange): Freshly squeezed. This is where the citrus part comes in. I usually use lemon, but lime works great too. Even orange can add a unique twist!
• White Wine (Optional): Is it necessary to add a splash of dry white wine to the sauce?
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, preheat your skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium heat. Add about a tablespoon of olive oil and let it get nice and hot – but not smoking! What is the best way to get golden brown crust on cod?
Step 2: Season the Cod
While the pan is heating, pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season them generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to use a good amount of seasoning – the cod needs it!
Step 3: Pan-Fry the Cod
How do you cook seasoned cod in a hot pan? If you have too many fillets, cook them in batches. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Make the Citrus Basil Butter Sauce
Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside. Add butter to the same pan and let it melt over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!
Step 5: Add Citrus and Basil
If you’re using lemon, lime, or orange, pour in the fresh citrus juice and the white wine. Let the sauce simmer for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir in the chopped fresh basil.
Step 6: Spoon Sauce Over Cod
Then, add the cooked cod to the pan and spoon the citrus basil butter sauce over them. Let them simmer in the sauce for a minute or two, just to warm them through.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Can you serve Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce? Fresh basil if desired. I like to serve it with a side of rice or roasted vegetables to soak up all that delicious sauce!
What should I serve it with?
What should I serve it with?
Can you make Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce? What are some of my favorite pairings?
What is the best healthy meal to eat? Serve with steamed asparagus or broccoli and a side of quinoa.
For a Heartier Meal: Serve over pasta (linguine or spaghetti works great) with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
For a Mediterranean Feast:Serve with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and a side of crusty bread. How do you soak the sauce?
What is a quick and easy weeknight dinner?Serve with a side salad and baked potato. Growing up, my mom always made this with garlic mashed potatoes – pure comfort food heaven! The citrus butter sauce cuts through the richness of the potatoes perfectly. What is a winning combination?
How do I make a Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce?
What are some tricks I’ve learned over the years to make Pan Fried Cod? Citrus Basil Butter Sauce recipe** even better:
Pat the Cod Dry: What is the best way toWhat is the most important tip? How do you pat the cod dry with paper towels before cooking? If the fish is wet, it will steam instead of sear, and you won’t get that beautiful golden-brown color.
Don’t overcrowd the pan! Overcrowding the pan will also cause the fish to steam instead of sear. Cook the cod in batches if necessary.
Don’t Overcook the Cod: Cod is a delicate fish, so it’s important not to overcook it. It’s done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil makes a huge difference in the flavor of the sauce. Dried basil just doesn’t compare. If you can, use basil that you’ve grown yourself – it’s so much more flavorful! I actually have a little herb garden on my windowsill just so I can have fresh basil on hand whenever I need it.
Adjust the Citrus to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of citrus juice to your liking. If you prefer a tangier sauce, add more lemon or lime juice. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little orange juice.
Add a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. It adds a nice warmth and complexity to the dish.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover **Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce Recipe**, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving this out at room temperature for more than a couple of hours. Fish is best consumed fresh or properly refrigerated.
Refrigerator Storage: In the fridge, it will keep well for a day or two. The sauce might thicken up a bit, but it’ll still taste delicious.
Freezer Instructions: Freezing isn’t ideal, as the texture of the fish can change, but if you must, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will last for about a month.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you are planning on freezing it, I would recommend making the sauce fresh when you reheat it, rather than freezing the sauce with the fish. This will help to preserve the flavor and texture of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This **Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce Recipe** is truly one of my go-to dinners – it’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. The bright, zesty sauce combined with the delicate cod is just irresistible. And honestly, who can resist anything with butter and basil? If you’re a fan of easy weeknight dinners that pack a flavor punch, you absolutely *have* to try this one. If you enjoy this, you might also like my Lemon Herb Baked Salmon – another simple fish recipe with tons of flavor!
I really hope you give this recipe a try! Let me know in the comments how it turns out, and if you make any fun variations. Happy cooking!
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Pan-Fried Cod in Citrus Basil Butter Sauce Recipe
IngredientsÂ
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb cod fillets skinless and boneless
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp lemon zest freshly grated
- 2 tbsp lemon juice fresh
- 1 tbsp orange juice fresh
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned cod fillets.
- Cook on one side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, orange juice, minced garlic, and chopped basil leaves.
- Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the cod to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
