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Pan-Fried Cod with Fresh Citrus Basil Butter Sauce

The exotic flavors of Pan-Fried Cod with Fresh Citrus Basil Butter Sauce create a culinary experience that is both refreshing and satisfying.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound Fresh Cod Fillets Approximately 1 to 1.5 pounds of fresh cod fillets.
  • 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour For coating the cod fillets.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt To season the flour and fish.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground for seasoning.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter For the sauce.
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Basil Leaves Chopped for the sauce.
  • 1 each Citrus Zest (Lemon and Orange) Zest of one lemon and one orange.
  • 2 tablespoons Citrus Juice (Lemon and Orange) Fresh lemon and orange juice.
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced for the sauce.

Instructions
 

  • Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure that your cod fillets are thoroughly thawed if previously frozen, and pat them dry with paper towels.
  • In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
  • Coat each cod fillet in the flour mixture, ensuring an even layer on both sides. Shake off any excess flour and set the fillets aside.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and foam.
  • Carefully place the coated cod fillets in the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  • Transfer the cooked cod fillets to a plate and cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
  • In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom.
  • Add the minced garlic to the melted butter, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add the lemon and orange zests and juices to the skillet, stirring to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in the chopped fresh basil, allowing it to wilt in the warm sauce. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  • Return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat thoroughly.
  • Plate the cod fillets, drizzling any remaining sauce over the top and garnishing with additional basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Consider serving with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Keyword Easy