Cod Piccata: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try Recipe
This Cod Piccata recipe features tender, pan-seared cod fillets coated in a light flour dredge, served with a vibrant lemon-caper butter sauce. The dish balances bright citrus flavors with the savory richness of butter and garlic, making it a perfect elegant yet easy-to-make seafood entrée.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Season the cod fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
- Dredge: Spread the flour on a plate and gently coat each cod fillet on both sides, shaking off any excess to create a light crust during cooking.
- Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and hot, providing the perfect base for searing the fish.
- Cook the Cod: Place the cod fillets carefully in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse the sauce with aromatic flavor.
- Add Liquids: Pour in fresh lemon juice and low-sodium chicken broth while scraping the browned bits from the skillet bottom to incorporate all the flavorful residues into the sauce.
- Add Capers: Stir in rinsed and drained capers and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finish the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and whisk in the remaining tablespoon of butter until the sauce slightly thickens and gains a rich, silky texture. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
- Combine: Return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet, spoon the luscious sauce over them, and warm for an additional minute to meld flavors and heat the fish through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving to add freshness and a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the cod to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Dredging the fish lightly in flour helps lock in moisture and adds texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest and most authentic piccata flavor.
- Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control saltiness in the dish.
- Capers add a tangy burst, but can be adjusted based on personal preference.
- Serve the dish immediately to enjoy the cod at its best texture and flavor.
Keywords: Cod Piccata, Fish Recipe, Lemon Butter Sauce, Pan-Seared Cod, Italian Seafood, Easy Dinner, Caper Sauce
