Treat yourself to a delightful seafood dish with this Pan-Fried Cod in a Citrus Basil Butter Sauce. Combining the light and flaky texture of cod with a refreshing citrus basil butter sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tangy citrus and fragrant basil enhance the natural flavors of the cod, making it a memorable meal.
Ingredients:
- For the Cod:
- 2 (8 oz) white cod filets
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- For the Citrus Basil Butter Sauce:
- 2 oranges, juiced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cod:
- Season the cod filets with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod filets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Citrus Basil Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil and reduce the heat to medium.
- Add the juice of the oranges and lemon, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the unsalted butter, allowing it to melt and incorporate into the sauce.
- Add the light brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked cod filets to the skillet, spooning the citrus basil butter sauce over the top.
- Allow the fish to warm through for a minute before serving.
Conclusion
This Pan-Fried Cod with Citrus Basil Butter Sauce is a delightful and elegant dish that combines simple ingredients to create a burst of flavor. The zesty citrus and aromatic basil complement the tender cod perfectly, making it a dish that is both light and satisfying. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and delicious meal. Enjoy the refreshing taste of this easy-to-make seafood recipe!