Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls are a delightful culinary creation that brings together the fresh flavors of the sea with the zesty brightness of lemon and the rich depth of garlic. As I prepared this dish for the first time, I was instantly transported to a coastal kitchen, where the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter mingles with the salty breeze. This recipe not only showcases the delicate texture of cod but also pays homage to the simplicity of seafood dishes that have been cherished for generations.

People love Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls for their incredible taste and convenience. The flaky cod, infused with a buttery garlic sauce, pairs perfectly with a bed of fluffy rice or crisp vegetables, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, these bowls deliver on flavor and ease. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked quinoa or rice (for serving)
• 2 cups fresh spinach or mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Cod

1. Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a nice sear when cooking.
2. Season both sides of the cod fillets generously with salt and pepper. I like to use freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick.
3. In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, dried thyme, and dried oregano. This will be our seasoning mix for the cod.
4. Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the cod fillets, making sure to coat them well. Set aside while we prepare the garlic butter.

Making the Lemon Garlic Butter

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. I love the aroma of butter melting; it’s the perfect start to any dish!
2. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Next, add the lemon juice to the pan, stirring to combine. The acidity of the lemon juice will brighten up the flavors of the butter and garlic.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and set it aside. This lemon garlic butter will be drizzled over the cod and the bowls later.

Cooking the Cod

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the skillet.
2. Cook the cod for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving it. This will help create a nice crust. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when the edges start to turn opaque.
3. Gently flip the cod fillets using a spatula and pour half of the lemon garlic butter over the top of the fillets.
4. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. Once cooked, remove the cod from the skillet and place it on a plate. Drizzle the remaining lemon garlic butter over the top for extra flavor.

Preparing the Bowls

1. While the cod is cooking, prepare your base. I like to use cooked quinoa or rice as the foundation of my bowls. If you haven’t cooked it yet, follow the package instructions to prepare 2 cups.
2. In a large bowl, add the cooked quinoa or rice as the base. This will soak up all the delicious flavors from the cod and the lemon garlic butter.
3. Next, add a generous handful of fresh spinach or mixed greens on top of the quinoa. The heat from the quinoa will slightly wilt the greens, making them tender and flavorful.
4. Now, add the halved cherry tomatoes around the bowl. Their sweetness will complement the savory cod beautifully.
5. Slice the avocado and arrange it on top of the bowl. Avocado adds a creamy texture that balances the dish perfectly.

Assembling the Bowls

1. Carefully place a cod fillet on top of the prepared quinoa and vegetable base. I like to position it slightly off-center for a more appealing presentation.
2. Drizzle any remaining lemon garlic butter from the skillet over the cod and the vegetables. This is

Conclusion:

In summary, these Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and freshness. The combination of tender cod fillets, zesty lemon, and rich garlic butter creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these bowls with a side of fluffy quinoa or brown rice to soak up that delightful garlic butter sauce. You can also add a colorful medley of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the cod for another white fish like tilapia or halibut, or even experiment with adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs for an extra layer of flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own! Whether you stick to the classic version or put your unique spin on it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, and any tips you discover along the way. Let’s spread the love for these Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls and inspire others to enjoy this delightful dish! Happy cooking!

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