If you're looking to impress your dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a gourmet meal at home, look no further than this delectable Pan Seared Cod with a White Wine Lemon Sauce! This dish combines the delicate flavors of perfectly seared cod with a tangy, aromatic sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, you can create a restaurant-quality experience in your own kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor a culinary delight that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 cod fillets, 1/2 cup of white wine, the juice of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 cloves of minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Also, have fresh parsley ready for garnish.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat until it melts and starts to foam. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Carefully add the seasoned cod fillets to the skillet, placing them skin-side down if they have skin. Cook for about 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.
- Once the fillets are golden brown on one side, gently flip them over using a spatula. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cod from the skillet and transfer it to a plate, covering it loosely with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Once the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- To serve, place a cod fillet on each plate and spoon the white wine lemon sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.
- Enjoy your delicious pan-seared cod with white wine lemon sauce alongside your favorite side dishes!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cod: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh cod fillets rather than frozen. Look for fillets that are firm and have a mild scent of the sea.
- Pat Dry for a Perfect Sear: Make sure to pat your cod fillets dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden crust.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the cod to cook undisturbed for the first few minutes. This helps to develop a nice crust and prevents the fish from sticking to the skillet.
- Deglaze with Care: When adding the white wine to the skillet, be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. These bits add incredible flavor to your sauce!
- Adjust the Sauce: Taste your white wine lemon sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the dish even further.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
- Pair with the Right Sides: Serve your pan-seared cod with light sides like steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to balance the meal beautifully.Enjoy your cooking adventure and the delightful flavors of this exquisite dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 171kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 75mg
