Best Cod Recipe with Herb Butter: A Flavorful and Easy Seafood Dish
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cod recipe? Look no further! This herb butter cod recipe is incredibly flavorful and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's packed with fresh herbs, creating a wonderfully aromatic and savory dish that's sure to impress. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring only a few fresh ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Cod fillets: Choose thick, firm fillets for best results. Skin-on or skinless works equally well.
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a pungent, delicious kick.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Provides a bright, fresh flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives: Adds a delicate oniony flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme: Offers an earthy, slightly lemony aroma.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and adds acidity.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon zest: For an extra burst of citrusy flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Preparing the Herb Butter Cod
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked and flavorful cod dish:
1. Prepare the Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, chives, thyme, lemon juice (and lemon zest, if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
2. Preheat & Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
3. Prepare the Cod:
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the herb butter evenly over the top of each cod fillet.
4. Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
5. Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Best Herb Butter Cod
- Don't overcook the cod: Overcooked cod will be dry and tough. It's best to slightly undercook it, as it will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs offer a much brighter and more intense flavor than dried herbs.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Add other herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as dill, oregano, or rosemary.
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Conclusion
This herb butter cod recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh herbs and buttery flavor creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. So, gather your ingredients and give it a try! Let me know in the comments how it turns out!
