Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) Cod fillets, skinless, about 1-inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) Olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons (56g) Unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) Dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), optional but recommended!
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) Fresh lemon juice, from about 1-2 lemons
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

  1. Prep the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the Cod: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the cod fillets in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic!).
  4. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Serve: Gently return the cod fillets to the skillet and spoon the lemon garlic butter sauce over them. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.