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Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod

  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy Lemon Garlic Butter Cod recipe features fresh cod fillets cooked with zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and rich plant-based butter. It is a light, flavorful, and wholesome dish perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Combining bright citrus notes with umami depth from vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and a splash of apple cider vinegar, this recipe delivers a tender, flaky fish with a smooth, creamy sauce and fresh herb garnish.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 fresh cod fillets (firm, skinless, about 6 oz each)

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp plant-based butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Cooking

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Garnish

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: thin lemon slices for decoration

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cod Fillets: Gently rinse the cod fillets under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and helps the fish cook evenly with a delicate texture.
  2. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, apple cider vinegar, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Mix well to balance the flavors.
  3. Cook the Cod: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the cod fillets in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden and crisp around the edges. Flip the fillets gently and pour the lemon garlic butter sauce over them. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately with optional lemon slices if desired to enjoy the full freshness and warmth of the sauce.

Notes

  • Use fresh cod for best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook; the fish should be tender, flaky, and hold its shape.
  • Add lemon juice and apple cider vinegar gradually to maintain balanced acidity.
  • Sauté garlic on medium heat to prevent bitterness and bring out its sweetness.
  • Add fresh parsley right before serving for a zesty, fresh flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Pan-frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg

Keywords: lemon garlic cod, plant-based butter cod, easy fish recipe, quick cod dinner, lemon garlic butter fish, healthy cod recipe, gluten free cod

Find it online: https://yummyrecipeszone.com/lemon-garlic-butter-cod/