Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Lemon Garlic Cod Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This quick and easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Cod recipe is perfect for nutritious weeknight dinners. Tender cod fillets are seared and simmered in a fragrant, creamy lemon garlic coconut milk sauce, finished with fresh basil and green onions. Serve with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or roasted veggies for a wholesome and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Fish and Seasoning

  • 1 pound cod, cut into 4 fillets
  • ½ tsp sea salt, to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Sauce and Aromatics

  • 1 Tbsp avocado oil
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14-oz) can full-fat coconut milk (light or full-fat both work)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup fresh basil or spinach
  • 3 stalks green onion, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cod: Remove cod fillets from packaging and pat them dry using a paper towel. Sprinkle sea salt evenly on both sides of each fillet to season the fish.
  2. Sear the Cod: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place cod fillets flesh-side down onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3 minutes until slightly golden brown, then gently flip and cook another 3 minutes. The fish does not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sauté Garlic: Return the skillet to the stove and add a little more avocado oil if needed. Keep the heat on medium-high. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until very fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add Cod and Sauce Ingredients: Place the seared cod back into the skillet with the garlic. Pour in the coconut milk, then add lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine all ingredients well.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a full boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle boil. Continue cooking for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a more deeply flavored sauce, simmer for 15-20 minutes. The cod will finish cooking in the sauce; it is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
  6. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in the fresh basil or spinach and chopped green onions right before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional sea salt and black pepper as desired.
  7. Serve and Store: Serve the creamy lemon garlic cod immediately with your choice of brown rice, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Use an instant-read thermometer to check the cod’s temperature to ensure it is cooked safely to 145°F.
  • You can substitute fresh spinach for basil if preferred; it will add a slightly different flavor.
  • Be gentle when flipping the cod as the fillets are very tender and can break easily.
  • The coconut milk sauce can be simmered longer for a thicker, richer consistency.
  • This dish pairs well with light, healthy sides such as steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice.
  • Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge and consume within 3 days to ensure freshness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipeglimpse.com/creamy-lemon-garlic-cod-recipe/