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Try this creamy cod with lemon and parmesan dish. The velvety, aromatic sauce wraps around the soft fish, making a fancy yet tasty meal that fits any dinner occasion.
Why you'll love this dish?
This lemon parmesan cod blends the lightness of tender fish with a rich citrusy sauce, wonderfully balanced by the nutty parmesan flavor. It's great for wowing guests or just treating yourself to a cozy dinner.
What you'll need for perfect cod
- Cod: 1 pound, preferably fresh, cut into 4 same-sized pieces.
- Salt & pepper: Add to your liking.
- Flour: 1/2 tbsp + more to coat the fish.
- Butter: 3 tbsp, split between cooking and making sauce.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, chopped small.
- Cream: 1 cup, thick or whipping type.
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp, for that tangy kick.
- Italian seasoning: 1/4 tsp.
- Parmesan: 1/2 cup, freshly grated.
- Parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped for garnish.
How to make this amazing dish
- Get your cod ready
- Let fish sit out for 15 minutes to warm up. Cut into 4 equal chunks, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then dust with flour and shake off extra.
- Cook your fish
- Melt 2 tbsp butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook cod for 2 minutes on each side, then carefully move to a plate.
- Create your sauce
- Turn heat down a bit and add remaining butter. Cook garlic with 1/2 tbsp flour for a minute. Pour in cream, lemon juice and Italian seasoning. Scrape up the tasty bits from the pan bottom and let bubble for 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the cheese
- Stir in grated parmesan and chopped parsley. Keep stirring until sauce gets smooth.
- Finish cooking
- Put the cod back in the pan and cook a few more minutes, spooning sauce over top. Make sure fish flakes easily with a fork.
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Tips for nailing this dish
Always go for fresh cod and good quality parmesan for the best flavor. Thick cream is a must for that silky, rich sauce. Pair with steamed veggies or rice for a well-rounded meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why let fish sit out first?
- Taking fish out of the fridge helps it cook evenly. Super cold fish might cook unevenly and dry out on the outside.
- → Can I use another cream?
- Stick to thick cream since it holds up better with lemon’s acidity. Lighter cream might curdle when mixed with lemon.
- → How do I tell if cod’s done?
- Cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Don’t overcook it to keep it soft and juicy.
- → What’s the best parmesan to use?
- Freshly grated parmesan tastes better and melts smoothly. Pre-grated cheese won’t give the same creamy texture.
- → What goes well on the side?
- Pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes soak up the tasty sauce perfectly. Add green veggies for a complete meal.