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Creamy Lemon Garlic Cod Recipe

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3.8 from 6 reviews

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Cod recipe features tender cod fillets simmered in a luscious coconut milk sauce infused with fresh garlic, lemon zest, and basil. Perfectly seared and slow-cooked to flaky perfection, this dish offers a refreshing, dairy-free twist on classic creamy fish preparations —ideal for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 pound cod (cut into 4 fillets)
  • 1 (14-oz) can full-fat coconut milk (light or full-fat both work)
  • 5 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 cup fresh basil or spinach
  • ½ tsp sea salt (to taste)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 3 stalks green onion (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cod: Remove the cod fillets from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle both sides evenly with sea salt to enhance flavor and seasoning.
  2. Sear the Cod: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the cod fillets flesh-side down onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3 minutes until the fillets develop a slightly golden brown crust. Flip gently using a spatula and cook the other side for an additional 3 minutes. Remove the fillets and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more avocado oil and keep the heat at medium-high. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Add Sauce Ingredients: Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet with the garlic. Pour in the full can of coconut milk, add lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir the mixture well to combine flavors evenly.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a full boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Allow it to cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cod has fully cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly. For a more intense flavor, simmer for up to 20 minutes.
  6. Check Doneness: The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Use an instant-read thermometer to verify doneness before proceeding.
  7. Add Fresh Greens: Stir in fresh basil or spinach and chopped green onions just before serving to add vibrant flavor and freshness to the dish.
  8. Season to Taste and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust with additional sea salt and black pepper if needed. Serve hot with your choice of sides such as rice, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables.
  9. Store Leftovers: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to enjoy later.

Notes

  • Use either light or full-fat coconut milk depending on desired sauce richness.
  • Be gentle when flipping the cod to avoid breaking the tender fillets.
  • Simmering longer will create a thicker and more flavorful sauce.
  • Check the internal temperature to prevent overcooking and dryness.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
  • Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/creamy-lemon-garlic-cod-recipe/