Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon and Fresh Herbs

Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon and Fresh Herbs

From the Oceanside kitchen Β· Recipe collection

Cod loins or fillets get a golden pan sear and a simple butter, lemon and herb finish. Dry fish and a properly heated skillet are the keys to a clean release.

Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon and Fresh Herbs
Serving inspiration Β· AI-generated illustration

Pan-Fried Cod with Lemon and Fresh Herbs

Yield
2 servings
Prep
5 min
Cook
About 10 min

Ingredients

  • 2 ( 5-6 oz.) Cod Fillets or Cod Loins
  • Β½ teaspoon salt
  • ΒΌ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 Tablespoons Canola Oil or Avocado oil (has a high smoke point and won’t burn)
  • 1-2 Tablespoons butter
  • 2 Tablespoons chopped parsley (Dill, basil, or Thyme are also delicious)
  • 1 small lemon cut into wedges

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Pat cod very dry and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the fish and reduce heat to medium.
  3. Cook undisturbed for about 2–3 minutes, until the underside is golden and releases from the pan.
  4. Turn gently with a thin spatula. Add butter and spoon it over the fish as the second side cooks, about 2–5 minutes depending on thickness.
  5. Cook to 145Β°F in the thickest part. Finish with herbs and lemon and serve promptly.

What to serve alongside

Potatoes or rice and green vegetables.

Helpful questions

How do I keep the seafood tender?

Let the first side brown before turning, then use a thin fish spatula to support the fillet.

Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, when it is suitable for this recipe. Thaw it in the refrigerator after removing vacuum packaging, then pat dry before cooking. Follow the recipe or product label if it specifically calls for cooking from frozen.

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