Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce
Ever have one of those days where you come home from work, and you’re just craving something that tastes like pure comfort? That’s exactly how this Golden Seared Cod with herb butter sauce came to life in my kitchen. Cod, with its mild flavor and flaky texture, transforms into something luxurious when seared to perfection and drizzled with a buttery, herby sauce that comes together in minutes.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s healthy, high in protein and omega-3s, and most importantly—absolutely delicious.
Servings
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets – Flaky and mild, cod is the perfect base for this rich sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps achieve a perfect golden sear.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Forms the base of the decadent herb sauce.
- 1 garlic clove, minced – Adds aroma and depth to the butter.
- Juice of 1/2 lemon – Brightens the sauce with a touch of acidity.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, snipped
Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Place the cod fillets in the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes, until golden on the bottom.
- Flip the fillets and cook for another 3 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the fillets and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Lower the heat to medium, add butter and garlic to the same skillet. Cook for about 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, parsley, dill, and chives.
- Spoon the herb butter sauce over the warm cod fillets and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or seasoned quinoa to soak up the sauce. For a lighter touch, add a side of steamed green beans, asparagus, or a crisp green salad. A slice of warm, crusty bread makes an excellent addition for mopping up every last drop of butter sauce.
Variations & Tips
- Substitute cod with halibut, tilapia, or another mild white fish.
- Add a little lemon zest to the butter sauce for extra brightness.
- Use dried herbs if fresh are unavailable, but reduce the quantity to 1/3.
- Keep fillets evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed for a perfect sear.
Conclusion
Golden Seared Cod with Herb Butter Sauce is everything a great meal should be—quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. With minimal ingredients and maximum impact, it’s a dish you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this recipe delivers every time. Bon appétit!
