Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Crispy Skin
Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 2
Ingredients
• 2 cod fillets (skin-on, about 180–200 g each)
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Zest of ½ lemon
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Optional: pinch of chili flakes
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cod
• Pat the cod fillets very dry with paper towels (this is key for crispy skin).
• Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Crisp the Skin
• Heat olive oil in a non-stick or stainless-steel pan over medium-high heat.
• Place cod skin-side down and press gently with a spatula for the first 20–30 seconds.
• Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crispy.
3️⃣ Flip & Butter Baste
• Flip the cod and reduce heat to medium.
• Add butter and garlic to the pan.
• Tilt the pan slightly and spoon the melted garlic butter over the fish for 1–2 minutes.
4️⃣ Finish with Lemon
• Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and chili flakes (if using).
• Cook until cod is just opaque and flakes easily (internal temp ~52–55°C).
5️⃣ Serve
• Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley.
• Serve immediately with the crispy skin facing up.
Serving Ideas
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Lemon rice or orzo
• Steamed asparagus or green beans
• Fresh arugula salad
Pro Tips
• Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
• Dry fish = crispy skin.
• Cod cooks fast; overcooking makes it dry.