Zesty Keto Lemon Butter Cod
A quick, one-pan keto-friendly fish dish bursting with bright citrus flavors.
KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Easy
- Diet: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large skillet or baking dish
- Zester/grater
- Measuring spoons
- Kitchen thermometer (optional)
Alternative: Any oven-safe pan works!
INGREDIENTS
Main:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz/170g each)
- 3 tbsp (45g) butter, unsalted
- 1 large lemon (for juice and zest)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
METHOD
- Pat cod fillets completely dry with paper towels.
- Season fillets with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- Heat skillet over medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
- Add butter and let melt until bubbling.
- Place cod in pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden.
- Add minced garlic and lemon zest to pan.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over fish.
- Cook until fish flakes easily with fork and reaches 145°F/63°C internal temperature.
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Never overcrowd the pan – cook in batches if needed.
- Fish should be room temperature before cooking.
- Don’t move fish for first 3-4 minutes to achieve proper sear.
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
- Refrigerate up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently to avoid drying.
Variations:
- Add capers for extra zing.
- Use ghee instead of butter.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for heat.
COMMON MISTAKES
- Flipping fish too early.
- Using cold fish straight from fridge.
- Overcooking (fish continues cooking off heat).
SCALING
- Double recipe: Use larger pan or cook in batches.
- Halve recipe: Reduce butter by half but keep other seasonings same.
This recipe gives you perfectly cooked, tender cod with a gorgeous golden crust and bright lemon-butter sauce. The key is getting that initial sear right – patience is your friend here!
Remember: Fresh fish should smell like the ocean, not “fishy.” If it does, it’s past its prime.
