Mediterranean Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Cilantro Lime Sauce
These Mediterranean Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Cilantro Lime Sauce are quick, flavorful, and perfect for a light dinner or lunch. The cod is cooked in a fragrant garlic butter, seared to a tender, flaky finish, and accented with paprika and a hint of chili flakes. Paired with a creamy, zesty cilantro lime sauce, this dish balances richness with fresh, bright flavors, giving it a distinctly Mediterranean touch. It’s simple to prepare, healthy, and impressive enough for guests or a quick weeknight meal.
Total Time:
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cod:
500 g fresh cod fillets, cut into strips
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:
½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 small garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon lime juice (plus zest of ½ lime)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Cilantro Lime Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate while cooking the fish.
Season the Cod:
Pat the cod strips dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes (if using).
Cook the Cod Strips:
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cod strips in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and flaky. Drizzle with lemon juice just before removing from the pan.
Serve:
Arrange cod strips on a plate and serve with the cilantro lime sauce on the side or drizzled over the fish. Garnish with additional cilantro or a lime wedge if desired.
Tips
Pat Cod Dry:
Removing excess moisture ensures a nice sear and prevents the fish from steaming.
Don’t Overcook:
Cod cooks quickly and can dry out if overcooked. It should flake easily with a fork but remain moist.
Garlic Timing:
Add garlic after the butter melts to prevent burning and bitterness.
Sauce Make-Ahead:
The cilantro lime sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Flavors deepen overnight.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, couscous, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.
Variations
Spicy Version:
Add extra chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the cod for more heat.
Creamier Sauce:
Mix the yogurt sauce with a teaspoon of olive oil or avocado for extra creaminess.
Herb Variations:
Swap cilantro for parsley or dill for a different Mediterranean herb profile.
Alternative Fish:
Cod can be replaced with tilapia, haddock, or halibut depending on availability.
Oven Option:
Bake cod strips at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q&A Section
Q1: Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with dairy-free yogurt and vegan mayo.
Q2: Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q3: How can I make it more flavorful?
A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a squeeze of fresh lime just before serving brightens the dish.
Q4: Can I prep this ahead?
The sauce can be made in advance. Cook the fish fresh for best texture.
Q5: What sides pair well with this dish?
Light grains like couscous, quinoa, or rice, along with a Mediterranean-style salad, work perfectly.
Nutrition Breakdown
(Approximate per serving – 2–3 servings)
Calories: 320
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 270mg
Values may vary depending on butter, yogurt, and fish size.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Cilantro Lime Sauce are a quick, flavorful dish that feels indulgent while remaining light and healthy. The combination of tender cod, garlicky butter, and a bright, tangy sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s versatile, easy to make, and brings a fresh Mediterranean touch to your table in under 20 minutes.