Delicious and Easy Cod Fillet Recipes
Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious weeknight meal? Look no further than cod fillets! This versatile white fish is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice for your family. Cod is also incredibly easy to cook, requiring minimal preparation and cooking time. This post will explore a couple of simple yet flavorful cod fillet recipes that even beginner cooks can master.
Recipe 1: Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon-Garlic Butter Sauce
This recipe highlights the delicate flavor of cod with a bright and flavorful sauce. It's perfect for a romantic dinner or a simple weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each), skin on or off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Cod: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cod fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the butter until melted. If using, add the white wine and let it simmer for a minute or two, until slightly reduced. Stir in the lemon juice and parsley.
- Serve: Spoon the lemon-garlic butter sauce over the cod fillets and serve immediately. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad complements this dish perfectly.
Recipe 2: Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. Roasting the vegetables alongside the cod infuses the entire dish with delicious flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the broccoli, bell peppers, and red onion with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble & Bake: Spread the vegetables in a single layer in a baking dish. Place the cod fillets on top of the vegetables.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish.
Tips for Perfect Cod:
- Don't overcook: Cod is a delicate fish that cooks quickly. Overcooked cod will be dry and tough.
- Check for doneness: The cod is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Season generously: Cod has a mild flavor, so don't be shy with the salt, pepper, and other seasonings.
- Get creative with sides: Experiment with different vegetables, grains, and sauces to create your own unique cod recipes.
These simple recipes are a great starting point for your cod cooking adventures. Remember to adjust seasonings to your personal preference and explore different flavor combinations. Enjoy!
