Gut Friendly Lemon Butter Cod
Flaky, golden cod bathed in a bright lemon butter sauce is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels far more indulgent than it actually is. What makes this recipe a smart choice for sensitive stomachs is the thoughtful swap of garlic-infused oil in place of whole garlic — you get all that savory depth without the fructans that can trigger discomfort. The scallion green tops pull the same trick, delivering a mild onion flavor that's much gentler than the bulb. The sauce comes together right in the pan after the fish is cooked, picking up all those caramelized bits and turning into something nutty, tangy, and deeply satisfying in just a couple of minutes. Fresh parsley and lemon zest keep everything tasting clean and vibrant, and a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just enough warmth if you're up for it. Serve it straight from the skillet with extra lemon wedges and you've got a restaurant-worthy plate that's genuinely easy on digestion.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp garlic-infused oil
For the sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp scallion green tops, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For serving
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels, then season both sides evenly with the salt and black pepper.
- 2
Heat the garlic-infused oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the cod fillets presentation-side down and cook, undisturbed, for 3–4 minutes, until the underside is golden and the fish releases easily from the pan.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!