This Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Aioli is a quick and delicious way to elevate your seafood game. The cod develops a perfect golden crust while staying flaky and tender inside, and the lemon aioli brings a zesty, creamy punch that ties everything together beautifully.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, this recipe uses minimal ingredients with maximum flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted veggies, or a side of rice. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish delivers gourmet flavor with zero fuss.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
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Season cod fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
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Place the cod fillets in the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and opaque in the center. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest to make the aioli.
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Spoon the lemon aioli over each fillet just before serving, and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 18 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Discover the Delight of Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Aioli
Few dishes strike the balance between simplicity and elegance quite like Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Aioli. It’s a meal that speaks to both comfort and sophistication, a golden-crusted, flaky white fish paired with a zesty, garlicky sauce that delivers just the right amount of punch. Whether you’re planning a quiet weeknight dinner or a stylish weekend gathering, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor into your home kitchen with ease.
At its heart, this dish is a celebration of contrasts: the crisp, seared exterior of the cod meets the delicate, moist interior; the creamy richness of the aioli is brightened by fresh lemon zest and juice. It’s a harmony of textures and tastes that makes every bite memorable.
The Beauty of Cooking with Cod
Cod is one of those versatile fish that home cooks often overlook, but professional chefs swear by. Its clean, mild flavor is like a blank canvas, ready to take on bold or subtle flavors alike. When pan-seared, cod develops a lovely crust that contrasts beautifully with its tender, flaky flesh. Plus, cod is packed with lean protein and low in calories, making it a smart choice for those looking to eat light without sacrificing satisfaction.
One of the best things about cod is its adaptability. You can dress it up with exotic spices or keep it classic like we do in this recipe with just salt, pepper, and a hot skillet to do the magic. It takes mere minutes to cook, which means it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even a last-minute lunch that feels far more indulgent than it is.
Let’s Talk Lemon Aioli
Lemon aioli is where the magic truly happens. Traditional aioli is an emulsion of garlic and olive oil, but modern interpretations, like this one, often include mayonnaise to create a more accessible and creamy sauce. The addition of Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest takes it to a new level fresh, tangy, and wonderfully aromatic.
What makes this aioli particularly special is its versatility. It’s a flavorful accompaniment to the cod, but you can also use it as a dip for roasted vegetables, a spread on sandwiches, or a topping for grilled chicken. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself making an extra batch for other meals.
The Secret to Perfect Pan-Seared Cod
Pan-searing fish can feel intimidating, but once you get the technique down, it’s a skill that’ll serve you for life. The key is in the heat and patience. A nonstick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet works best. You’ll want the pan hot enough to create a golden crust but not so hot that it burns the fish before it’s cooked through.
Start by patting your cod fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial, moisture is the enemy of browning. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat your oil until shimmering, then place the fillets in the pan skin-side down (if skin-on). Resist the urge to move them; letting them sear undisturbed for a few minutes ensures a perfect crust. Once the sides of the fish turn opaque, it’s time to flip. Finish cooking for another 2-3 minutes and you’re done.
Pairing and Serving Ideas
This cod with lemon aioli pairs wonderfully with a wide range of sides. Here are a few of our favorites:
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Roasted vegetables: Think asparagus, broccolini, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. The caramelization from roasting adds another layer of flavor.
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Light grains: A bed of fluffy quinoa, couscous, or brown rice provides a satisfying but healthy base.
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Fresh salads: A simple arugula salad with a vinaigrette or a cucumber-dill salad brings crisp, refreshing notes to the plate.
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Crusty bread or potatoes: For something a little more hearty, try roasted baby potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or even a rustic piece of toasted sourdough.
And don’t forget the wine! A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with bright acidity complements the lemony aioli and enhances the cod’s flavor beautifully.
Nutritional Benefits
Cod isn’t just tasty, it’s incredibly nutritious. A 6-ounce portion provides around 30 grams of protein while staying low in fat and calories. It’s also a good source of:
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Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function and energy metabolism.
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Iodine: Important for thyroid health.
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Selenium: A powerful antioxidant that supports immune function.
The lemon aioli, made with olive oil-based mayo, adds healthy fats and flavor without overloading on calories. Altogether, this meal is a great fit for those following keto, Mediterranean, or low-carb diets.
Variations to Try
Looking to put your own spin on this classic? Here are a few ideas:
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Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the aioli for a little heat.
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Herbed crust: Coat the cod with chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme before searing.
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Citrus twist: Swap lemon for lime or orange for a different citrus note.
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Grilled version: Fire up the grill for a slightly smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks.
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Taco-style: Flake the cod and serve it in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and aioli as a sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this dish so special is how easily it fits into everyday life. It’s elegant enough for guests, yet fast enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s healthy, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable. You don’t need fancy tools or rare ingredients just a skillet, a few pantry staples, and a hunger for something truly satisfying.
From its crisp sear to the rich aioli drizzle, every component of this dish sings in harmony. Even if you’re not a confident seafood cook, this recipe will guide you toward success and hopefully, spark a deeper love for cooking with fish.
Conclusion
Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon Aioli is more than just a meal; it’s a gateway to mastering seafood at home. With its quick prep time, minimal ingredients, and restaurant-worthy taste, it delivers on every front: nutrition, presentation, and pure enjoyment.
Whether you’re whipping it up for a solo night in or serving a small crowd, this dish promises to impress. Bookmark it, share it, and most importantly make it often. Good food doesn’t need to be complicated, and this recipe is living proof.