Legume Free Lemon Butter Cod
Flaky, golden-seared cod bathed in a bright, nutty lemon butter sauce is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels far more impressive than the effort it takes. The fillets get a proper sear in garlic-infused oil until they release cleanly from the pan, then a quick brown butter sauce built right in the same skillet ties everything together with lemon juice, zest, scallion tops, and fresh parsley. For anyone navigating a legume-free lifestyle, fish dishes can sometimes hide unexpected ingredients in marinades or seasoning blends — here, every component is straightforward and easy to verify. There are no beans, lentils, peas, or soy-derived ingredients anywhere in the recipe, so you can cook with total confidence. The optional pinch of red pepper flakes adds just enough warmth to keep the sauce interesting without overpowering the delicate cod. Spooning that glossy, herb-flecked butter over each fillet right before serving is the kind of finishing move that makes a simple plate look restaurant-worthy. Serve with lemon wedges on the side and something to soak up every last drop of that sauce.
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!