Cod Piccata: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try Recipe
This Cod Piccata recipe features tender cod fillets cooked to golden perfection in a tangy lemon-caper butter sauce. It’s a simple yet elegant stovetop dish that delivers bright citrus flavors balanced with savory butter and capers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Coating
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Season the cod fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavor.
- Dredge: Spread the all-purpose flour on a plate and gently coat each cod fillet on both sides, shaking off any excess flour for a light crust.
- 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, preparing for cooking the fish.
- Cook the Cod: Place the floured cod fillets in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Then remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the fresh lemon juice and low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to add depth to the sauce.
- Add Capers: Stir in the rinsed and drained capers, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the remaining tablespoon of butter until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine: Return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and warm for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices for a bright, fresh presentation before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Do not overcook the cod to keep it tender and flaky.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
- Chicken broth adds savory depth, but vegetable broth is a suitable alternative for pescatarians.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or over pasta for a complete meal.
Keywords: Cod Piccata, lemon caper sauce, fish recipe, stovetop cooking, easy seafood dinner, Italian fish dish
