Pan Fried Cod with Citrus Basil Butter Sauce is a delicious and refreshing dish. It combines the lightness of cod with zesty citrus flavors and fragrant basil. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare. The bright flavors from the citrus and basil really elevate the cod, making it a standout meal. It’s great for busy nights and adds a fresh touch to your dinner rotation. You’ll love how quickly it comes together!
How to Make Pan Fried Cod with Citrus Basil Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 (8 oz) white cod filets
- 2 oranges (one for zest and juice, one for slices)
- 1 lemon
- 1⁄2 cup olive oil, divided
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp light brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, shredded
Directions:
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Marinate: Place cod in a baking dish. Zest one orange and the lemon over the fish, squeeze their juice on top, and drizzle with 1⁄4 cup olive oil. Cover and let marinate for at least 1 hour.
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Prep: Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Heat the remaining 1⁄4 cup olive oil in an oven-safe sauté pan.
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Cook Cod: Remove cod from marinade (reserve marinade), season with salt and pepper, and pan-fry over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side. Transfer the pan to the oven to keep fish warm.
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Make Sauce: In a pan, melt 2 tbsp butter, add brown sugar and reserved marinade. Add juice from the remaining orange slices and bring to a boil. Reduce sauce by half, then stir in basil and remaining 1 tbsp butter until melted.
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Serve: Remove fish from the oven, top with sauce, and garnish with fresh basil.
How to Serve Pan Fried Cod with Citrus Basil Butter Sauce
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with rice or couscous to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Store
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cod will keep well for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain its texture.
Tips to Make
- Make sure to marinate the cod for at least an hour for maximum flavor.
- Use fresh basil for the best taste.
- Adjust the amount of citrus based on your preference for tanginess.
Variation
You can swap the cod for another white fish like tilapia or halibut if you prefer. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen cod for this recipe? Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
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What can I substitute for butter? You can use margarine or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
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How do I know when the cod is cooked? The cod should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the middle when fully cooked.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) white cod filets
- 2 oranges (one for zest and juice, one for slices)
- 1 lemon
- 1⁄2 cup olive oil, divided
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp light brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, shredded
Instructions
- Place cod filets in a baking dish. Zest one orange and lemon over fish, squeeze juice on top, and drizzle with 1⁄4 cup olive oil. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Heat remaining olive oil in an oven-safe sauté pan.
- Remove cod from marinade (reserve marinade). Season cod with salt and pepper, pan-fry over medium heat 3-4 minutes per side. Place pan in oven to keep fish warm.
- In another pan, melt 2 tbsp butter, add brown sugar, reserved marinade, and juice from remaining orange slices. Bring to a boil and reduce sauce by half.
- Stir in shredded basil and remaining 1 tbsp butter until melted.
- Remove cod from oven, top with citrus basil butter sauce, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.
Notes
Marinate the cod for at least one hour for best flavor. Adjust citrus to your preferred tanginess. Fresh basil enhances the flavor significantly.