Garlic Butter Cod is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together tender cod fillets and a luscious garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and delivers a delightful meal that pleases everyone at the table. With its aromatic garlic scent and buttery finish, Garlic Butter Cod is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
Why Make This Garlic Butter Cod
This Garlic Butter Cod recipe is not just easy but also incredibly satisfying. The cod, known for its mild flavor and flaky texture, pairs beautifully with the richness of garlic and butter. Plus, it cooks quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a hassle-free dinner when you have guests. The zesty touch of lemon juice brightens the dish, while the fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. It’s a perfect harmony of simplicity and sophistication on your dinner table.
How to Make Garlic Butter Cod
Creating Garlic Butter Cod is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the cod will cook evenly and develop a lovely flavor.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can make it taste bitter.
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Step 3: Cooking
Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture generously over them. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. This adds a fresh element that complements the richness of the dish.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Cod
Serve Garlic Butter Cod hot from the oven, perhaps with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. A serving of fluffy rice or crusty bread could also be delightful to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
How to Store Garlic Butter Cod
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop the cod back in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the fish rubbery.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Cod
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. If you must use garlic powder in a pinch, adjust quantities to taste.
- Fish Freshness: Ensure your cod is as fresh as possible. Look for fillets that are moist with a mild scent.
- Don’t Overcook: Cod cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to avoid dryness; the fish should be opaque and flaky when done.
- Variations: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a kick!
- Lemon Zest: For extra citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the garlic butter mixture.
Delicious Variations
While the classic Garlic Butter Cod is delicious, you might enjoy these variations:
- Herbed Butter: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or dill into the butter for added flavor.
- Baked in Foil: Wrap the cod fillets in aluminum foil with the garlic butter mixture for a steamy, flavorful presentation.
- Spicy Garlic Butter: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the garlic butter for a spicy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. -
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Cod?
Consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. -
Can I substitute the cod?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other white fish like haddock or tilapia. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for gluten-sensitive diets. -
How can I enhance the flavor of my garlic butter?
You can experiment by adding a touch of white wine or balsamic vinegar to the butter for a more complex flavor.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Cod is a delightful recipe that balances simplicity and flavor beautifully. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and fragrant garlic butter sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of Garlic Butter Cod in your kitchen!
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Garlic Butter Cod
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A simple yet elegant dish featuring tender cod fillets and a luscious garlic butter sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
