Garlic Butter Cod with Lemon Asparagus Skillet – A Quick and Flavorful Meal

Imagine a meal that’s simple to make, bursting with flavor, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant yet effortless dish, Garlic Butter Cod with Lemon Asparagus Skillet is the perfect choice.

This one-pan dish combines tender, flaky cod fillets with fresh, vibrant asparagus coated in a buttery garlic sauce and finished with a refreshing lemon zest kick. The combination of flavors creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes!

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this delicious and healthy garlic butter cod recipe at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more convenience.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with lean protein, omega-3s, and vitamins.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
• Restaurant-Quality Taste – The perfect balance of buttery, garlicky, and citrusy flavors.
• Perfect for Any Diet – Naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Cod with Lemon Asparagus Skillet

Here’s what you need to create this flavorful and nutritious meal:

For the Cod

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Cod fillets	1½ lbs (680 g)	Use fresh or thawed fillets
Salt & black pepper	To taste	Enhances flavor
Paprika	½ tsp	Adds mild smokiness
Olive oil	2 tbsp	For searing the fish
Unsalted butter	3 tbsp	Creates a rich garlic sauce
Garlic cloves, minced	3	Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor

For the Asparagus

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Asparagus	1 bunch, trimmed	Choose firm, bright green spears
Olive oil	1 tbsp	For sautéing the asparagus
Fresh lemon juice	1 tbsp	Adds freshness and acidity
Lemon zest	Zest of 1 lemon	Provides extra citrus aroma
Salt & black pepper	To taste	Balances the flavors

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cod Fillets

• Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
• Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

2. Sear the Cod

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the cod fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low.
• Melt 3 tablespoons of butter and stir in the minced garlic.
• Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then return the cod to the pan.
• Spoon the garlic butter over the fillets and let them absorb the flavors for another 1-2 minutes.

4. Cook the Asparagus

• In a separate pan (or the same skillet after removing the fish), heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the trimmed asparagus and season with salt and black pepper.
• Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
• Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with lemon zest for a bright, tangy finish.

5. Assemble and Serve

• Plate the garlic butter cod with a side of lemon asparagus.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Cod

Choosing the Right Cod

• Use fresh or frozen cod fillets (thawed completely before cooking).
• Look for fillets that are firm, white, and without a strong fishy smell.

Getting a Perfect Sear

• Pat the cod dry before seasoning to prevent excess moisture.
• Use a hot pan and avoid moving the fish while it sears.
• Flip only once to keep the fillets intact.

Making the Garlic Butter Extra Flavorful

• Add a splash of white wine for depth.
• Stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Swap parsley for fresh dill or thyme for a unique twist.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a bit of butter.
• Avoid microwaving to prevent the fish from becoming rubbery.

Variations & Customizations

Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly

• Replace asparagus with zucchini noodles or sautéed spinach.
• Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Spicy Version

• Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a bolder kick.

Dairy-Free Option

• Use ghee or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Different Fish Options

• Swap cod for halibut, tilapia, or salmon.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Cod Fillet with Asparagus)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~320
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	5g
Fiber	2g
Fat	18g
Sodium	400mg

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient choices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen cod?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

2. How do I know when cod is cooked?

Cod is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

3. What can I serve with garlic butter cod?

Aside from asparagus, try serving it with mashed potatoes, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

4. Can I bake the cod instead of pan-searing?

Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, then drizzle with garlic butter before serving.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the garlic butter and asparagus ahead of time. Simply reheat and serve with freshly cooked cod.

6. How do I prevent cod from falling apart?

Be gentle when flipping, and use a fish spatula for better control.

Final Thoughts

Making Garlic Butter Cod with Lemon Asparagus Skillet is a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. With flaky, tender cod, vibrant asparagus, and rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is a quick, healthy, and flavorful option for any occasion.

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