This one-pan dinner is a delightfully buttery, zesty, and garlicky treat, ready in just 16 minutes. With 31 grams of protein per serving and less than 1 gram of net carbs, this dish is a stellar choice for those following a gluten-free, keto, low-calorie, and high-protein diet.
Cod, one of my favorite fish, stands out for its mild flavor and incredible versatility. While there are countless ways to prepare it, my personal favorite is buttered cod. This preparation elevates the fish, marrying its delicate texture with rich, creamy butter.
Cod isn’t just a culinary gem; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse, delivering essential nutrients to keep your family healthy.
Selecting the best ingredients is crucial to making this dish both delicious and memorable. When buying cod, prioritize freshness—steer clear of fish with a strong odor or slimy texture.
Opt for wild-caught cod when possible, as it tends to offer superior flavor and texture compared to farmed-raised varieties. Store your fish in the coldest part of the fridge and use it within two days for the best results.
While you can experiment by adding ingredients like capers or mushrooms, which do add a nice flavor punch, I always find myself returning to the classic recipe for its perfect simplicity.
Ingredients and Substitutes
1 1/2 lbs cod fillets: Feel free to substitute with other fish such as tilapia or a richer choice like salmon. Select fillets that are firm and have a fresh, oceanic aroma.
Unsalted butter (6 tbsp): Choose unsalted butter to easily control the seasoning of your dish. Remember, it’s simpler to add salt than to correct an over-salted meal.
Garlic powder (¼ tsp): Garlic flakes can be a great alternative.
Onion powder (¼ tsp): You can use onion flakes instead.
Paprika (¾ tsp): If paprika isn’t available, cayenne pepper or chipotle powder can work as substitutes.
Salt (½ tsp)
Ground black pepper (¼ tsp)
1/2 lemon
Fresh parsley: Opt for fresh parsley rather than dried to bring a burst of freshness and enhance the dish’s flavor.
Lemon slices
How to Make Lemon Buttered Cod
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Stir the mixture until it’s well combined.
Step 3: Coat the cod fillets evenly with the seasoning mixture, ensuring each fillet is fully covered.
Step 4: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, then place the cod fillets in the skillet.
Step 5: Cook the cod for about 2 minutes, then gently flip the fillets. Add the remaining butter and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the fish to avoid it falling apart.
Step 6: Finish by drizzling the skillet with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
Side Dishes for Buttered Cod
Buttered cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some top picks to complement this flavorful dish:
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, potatoes, or asparagus to enhance the rich taste of the cod.
- Rice Pilaf: A light and fragrant rice pilaf is perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce. For a low-carb alternative, opt for cauliflower rice.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cod.
Storage and Leftovers
To keep leftovers fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 2-3 days.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, place the cod in a baking dish covered with aluminum foil. Preheat the oven to 300°F and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the cod rubbery and dry.
For longer storage, wrap the cod tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month.
See more Keto Recipes
PrintButtered Cod
You only need a single pan to whip up this deliciously buttery cod. Infused with garlic and lemon, it’s ready in a mere 16 minutes! Plus, it’s gluten-free, keto-friendly, low-carb, and packed with protein.
- Total Time: 16 mins
- Yield: 4 plates 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¾ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Freshly chopped parsley
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the cod pieces with this spice blend.
- Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cod and cook for 2 minutes.
- Reduce the heat, flip the cod gently, and add the remaining butter. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the butter to fully melt and the fish to cook through—be careful not to overcook to avoid the cod breaking apart.
- Finish by drizzling the fish with fresh lemon juice and garnishing with chopped parsley and lemon slices.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 6 mins
- Diet: Low Calorie
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 297kcal
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 386mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 1.2g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 119mg
Source: https://allnutritious.com/buttered-cod/