Easy Lemon Butter Cod Recipe
This easy lemon butter cod recipe pairs tender cod fillets with vibrant lemon, buttery orzo, and crisp asparagus for a flavorful and quick dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's a perfect combination of fresh ingredients and rich, saucy flavors, ideal for any day of the week.
Equipment
- Large cast-iron skillet
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 6- to 8-ounce cod fillets
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 Meyer or regular lemon sliced (plus more for serving)
- 1 garlic clove minced or grated
- 1 bunch asparagus ends trimmed, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season cod with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with flour. Sear cod until golden on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sear lemon slices until golden, about 1 minute per side. Remove lemons and add them to the cod.
- Add garlic, asparagus, and orzo to the skillet. Cook until garlic is fragrant and orzo is lightly toasted, 2–3 minutes. Stir in chicken broth and lemon juice, then bring to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until orzo is al dente, about 10 minutes.
- Return cod and lemon slices to the skillet along with any collected juices. Cook for 1 minute to warm through.
- Garnish with fresh dill and serve.
Notes
- Substitute Meyer lemons with regular lemons if unavailable; Meyer lemons provide a sweeter, more delicate flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, replace orzo with gluten-free pasta or rice and use gluten-free flour for dredging.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon slices.
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