Description
Flaky, tender cod fillets are pan-seared to perfection and drizzled with a rich garlic butter sauce, while vibrant asparagus adds a refreshing crunch. Finished with a zesty lemon kick, this Garlic Butter Cod with Lemon Asparagus Skillet is a restaurant-quality meal made in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cod:
- 1½ lbs (680 g) cod fillets
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Sear the Cod: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and flaky. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Return cod to the skillet and spoon the butter sauce over the fillets. Let sit for 1-2 minutes.
- Cook the Asparagus: In a separate pan (or the same skillet after removing cod), heat olive oil over medium heat. Add asparagus, season with salt and black pepper, and sauté for 3-5 minutes until tender. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest on top.
- Serve & Enjoy: Plate the cod alongside the asparagus. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a crispier texture: Lightly dredge the cod in flour before searing.
- Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the butter sauce.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating tip: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a little butter.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Mediterranean