Pan-Seared Cod Loin: A Simple, Elegant Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that's both healthy and impressive? Look no further than this pan-seared cod loin recipe! Cod is a flaky white fish that's packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe focuses on highlighting the natural flavor of the cod with simple, yet flavorful ingredients.
What You'll Need:
This recipe serves two. You can easily double or triple it depending on your needs.
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Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) cod loins, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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Equipment:
- Large skillet (oven-safe is a plus)
- Tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod loins dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This is crucial for a good sear!
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Sear the Cod: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, carefully place the cod loins in the skillet, skin-side down (if using skin-on). Sear for 3-4 minutes, undisturbed, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
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Flip and Finish: Flip the cod loins and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer a more well-done fish, cook for a longer time.
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Add Flavor: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. If using white wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to slightly reduce.
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Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Spoon the sauce over the cod loins.
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Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple salad.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than two cod loins, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste!
- Don't overcook the cod: Overcooked cod will be dry and tough. It's better to slightly undercook it than to overcook it.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley to your liking. Experiment with different herbs and spices!
Variations:
- Mediterranean Cod: Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and oregano to the sauce.
- Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Creamy Cod: Stir in a dollop of crème fraîche or heavy cream to the sauce at the end of cooking.
This pan-seared cod loin recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy this delicious and healthy fish. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Enjoy!
