Prep the Fish:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the Cod:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking. Carefully lay the cod fillets in the hot oil and sear for about 4 minutes on the first side, until the underside is golden and crisp.
Gently flip the cod with a spatula and continue to cook for about 3 more minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Make the Sauce:
Transfer the cod to a warm plate and tent loosely with foil to keep it warm.
Lower the heat to medium, then add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the butter has melted and the garlic is aromatic, about 1 minute.
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, parsley, dill, and chives.
Serve:
Spoon the warm herb butter sauce generously over the cod fillets and serve immediately.
Variations & Tips:
Fish Alternatives: Not a fan of cod? This recipe works beautifully with other white fish like halibut or tilapia.
Add a Zesty Touch: Incorporate some lemon zest into the herb butter for an extra pop of flavor.
Using Dried Herbs: If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried ones—just use them sparingly since they’re more concentrated.
Reheating Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven to maintain the texture of the fish.
This dish is all about bringing simplicity and elegance to your table with minimal effort but maximum flavor. Remember to give each piece of fish enough space in the pan to ensure a good sear, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish right at home. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
