Pan-Seared Cod with Garlic, Parsley, and Olive Oil

This Pan-Seared Cod is a quick, flavorful seafood dish perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining. Lightly seared in butter and finished with a fragrant garlic-parsley emulsion, the cod stays tender and flaky while developing a rich, savory taste. With minimal ingredients and only minutes of cooking time, it’s a simple recipe that delivers maximum flavor.

What Is Pan-Seared Cod?

Pan-seared cod is a quick-cooking seafood preparation where cod fillets are browned in a hot skillet, then enhanced with aromatics like garlic, parsley, and olive oil. The brief sear locks in moisture, creating fish that’s tender inside with lightly crisped edges.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy schedules.
• Delicate, flaky fish with a buttery, herby finish.
• Healthy and light, yet satisfying.
• Works beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or salad.
• A restaurant-quality dish made at home.

Cooking Tips

1. Pat the cod dry before searing to achieve a better crust.
2. Use a non-stick or well-seasoned pan to prevent sticking.
3. Don’t overcook—cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
4. Add the parsley-garlic mixture toward the end to keep flavors fresh.
5. For a citrusy kick, finish with a squeeze of lemon just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Cod?

Yes—just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

What Other Fish Can I Use?

Haddock, halibut, or sea bass are great substitutes.

Can I Make This Dairy-Free?

Yes! Simply omit the butter and use only olive oil.

How Do I Know When the Cod Is Done?

The flesh will turn opaque and flake easily when pressed with a fork.

What’s the Best Side Dish for This Cod?

Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, couscous, or a fresh green salad pair beautifully.

How to Freeze

Freezing cooked cod is possible but not ideal, as the texture can become watery. For best results, enjoy fresh.

How to Store

Refrigerate leftover cod in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out.

How To Make Cod in a Pan

Step 1

Step 1

Make the Emulsion:
In a small bowl, combine chopped garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and chopped parsley. Stir to form a thick mixture.

Make the Emulsion:
In a small bowl, combine chopped garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and chopped parsley. Stir to form a thick mixture.

Step 2

Step 2

Sear the Cod:
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod fillets and sear for 2 minutes per side until lightly golden.

Sear the Cod:
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod fillets and sear for 2 minutes per side until lightly golden.

Step 3

Step 3

Season and Add Emulsion:
Sprinkle cod with salt. Spoon the garlic-parsley mixture over the fillets. Cook for 1 more minute, being careful not to overcook.

Season and Add Emulsion:
Sprinkle cod with salt. Spoon the garlic-parsley mixture over the fillets. Cook for 1 more minute, being careful not to overcook.

Serve:
Transfer to plates, garnish with extra parsley, and add a squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve immediately.