Mediterranean Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Cilantro Lime Sauce
Mediterranean Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Cilantro Lime Sauce is a fast, flavorful seafood dish that feels both light and indulgent. Tender cod is cut into strips, quickly cooked in garlic-infused butter and olive oil, then finished with a bright, zesty sauce that balances richness with freshness. The Mediterranean influence comes through in the use of olive oil, citrus, herbs, and simple seasoning that lets the fish shine. This recipe works beautifully for weeknight dinners, casual entertaining, or anytime you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, rice, or warm flatbread, making it flexible and dependable.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Cod Strips
680 g (1½ lb) cod fillets, skinless and boneless
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Zest of 1 lime
Cilantro Lime Sauce
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, finely grated
¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Salt to taste
Instructions
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and cut them into evenly sized strips.
Season the cod with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime zest.
In a small bowl, whisk together all cilantro lime sauce ingredients until smooth, then refrigerate.
Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
Place cod strips in the skillet in a single layer.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through.
Spoon garlic butter from the pan over the cod as it cooks.
Remove from heat once the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Serve hot, drizzled or dipped with cilantro lime sauce.
Tips
Choose thick, fresh cod fillets for best texture and flavor.
Drying the fish well helps achieve a light golden crust.
Cut strips evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Do not overcrowd the pan, or the fish will steam instead of sear.
Keep heat at medium to prevent burning the garlic.
Butter adds richness, while olive oil keeps it balanced.
Flip cod gently using a thin spatula to avoid breaking.
Remove fish as soon as it flakes to keep it moist.
Chill the sauce briefly to enhance its flavor.
Taste sauce before serving and adjust lime or salt as needed.
Variations
Spicy Mediterranean: Add chili flakes or cayenne to the cod seasoning.
Herb Garlic Cod: Add chopped parsley or dill to the butter sauce.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with extra olive oil.
Baked Version: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 12 to 15 minutes.
Air Fryer Cod Strips: Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 8 to 10 minutes.
Lemon Basil Sauce: Replace cilantro with fresh basil and lime with lemon.
Crusted Cod: Lightly coat cod with seasoned breadcrumbs before cooking.
Greek-Inspired: Add oregano and serve with tzatziki.
Fish Tacos: Serve strips in warm tortillas with slaw and sauce.
Mixed Seafood: Combine cod with shrimp or scallops for variety.
Q&A
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
How do I know when cod is cooked?
It should flake easily and appear opaque.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, it keeps well refrigerated for up to two days.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or salad work well.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce spices for milder flavor.
Can I substitute another fish?
Haddock, pollock, or halibut work well.
Does this reheat well?
Fish is best fresh, but gentle reheating works.
Can I grill the cod?
Yes, use a grill pan or foil to prevent sticking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written.
Can I serve it cold?
It is best served warm, but leftovers can be used in salads.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 320–350
Protein: 32–36 g
Carbohydrates: 4–6 g
Fat: 18–22 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Values vary depending on butter and sauce amounts.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Cilantro Lime Sauce offer a perfect balance of richness and freshness. The buttery garlic coating enhances the delicate cod, while the bright sauce keeps the dish light and vibrant. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings. It is a reliable seafood dish that delivers bold flavor, clean ingredients, and Mediterranean comfort in every bite.