Mediterranean Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce
Mediterranean Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce is a bright, flavorful seafood dish that combines tender, flaky cod with a rich, citrusy butter sauce. Quick to prepare, this recipe captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with simple, fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. The cod is perfectly pan-seared to achieve a golden crust while staying moist inside, then drizzled with a silky lemon butter sauce for a balance of richness and acidity. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, elegant weekender meals, or a light, healthy entrée.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
4 cod fillets (6 oz each), skin removed
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the cod fillets and cook without moving for 3 to 4 minutes until a golden crust forms.
Flip the fillets carefully and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until opaque and cooked through. Remove cod from the skillet and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet, and let it melt.
Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Deglaze the pan with white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits for added flavor.
Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes (if using), letting the sauce simmer for 1 to 2 minutes.
Return the cod fillets to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over the top.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips
Patting the cod dry ensures a crisp, golden sear.
Do not overcrowd the pan; cook fillets in batches if needed.
Use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking.
Keep the heat moderate to avoid burning the butter or garlic.
Deglaze the pan to lift all the flavorful bits from searing the fish.
Add lemon juice gradually and taste to balance acidity.
Let the fish rest briefly in the sauce for optimal flavor absorption.
Use fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
For a richer sauce, add an extra tablespoon of butter at the end.
Serve immediately; the cod is best enjoyed fresh and hot.
Variations
Substitute cod with halibut, haddock, or sea bass for a similar effect.
Add capers to the sauce for a briny, tangy accent.
Incorporate chopped cherry tomatoes for a colorful Mediterranean twist.
Use brown butter for a nutty, deeper-flavored sauce.
Add olives for extra Mediterranean flair.
Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for subtle complexity.
Pair with sautéed spinach or asparagus for a healthy side.
Include a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone.
Make it spicy with a few slices of fresh chili or cayenne.
Serve over a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete meal.
Q&A
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
How do I know when the cod is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but add it to the fish just before serving for best results.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
Can I bake the cod instead of pan-frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, then drizzle with the sauce.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it is naturally low in carbohydrates.
How do I prevent the cod from sticking?
Ensure the pan is hot, the fish is dry, and use enough oil.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, lime adds a slightly different but equally bright flavor.
Nutrition
(per serving, approximate)
Calories: 370 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fat: 24 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sodium: 560 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers a perfect balance of crispy, tender fish and bright, buttery flavors. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s ideal for weeknight meals or a refined dinner for guests. The fresh Mediterranean notes of garlic, lemon, and parsley complement the rich butter sauce, making every bite satisfying and flavorful. This recipe demonstrates that fresh, healthy, and indulgent can coexist beautifully in one pan.