Ingredients:

  • 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets, skinless
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

  1. Combine rice, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until water is absorbed and rice is fluffy. Fluff with a fork.
  2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
  3. Place cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  5. While the cod is baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant (but not browned!).
  6. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley. Heat through, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds. Do not boil.
  7. Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the baked Lemon Butter Cod with Rice fillets. Serve immediately over the prepared rice.