Perfect Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Cod swimming in zesty lemon garlic butter makes my taste buds dance with excitement.

This Mediterranean-inspired dish brings together simple, fresh ingredients that sing on the plate.

Rich, flaky fish meets crispy roasted brussels sprouts in a harmony of flavors.

Bright citrus notes cut through the buttery seafood, creating a balanced meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes.

The combination feels elegant yet totally approachable for weeknight cooking.

Each bite promises a delightful blend of textures and robust seasonings.

Trust me, this recipe will become your new go-to seafood comfort meal.

Why Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts Are A Flavor Win

• Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal: Whip up this delicious cod dish in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy families needing a fast, nutritious dinner solution.
• Nutrient-Packed Flavor Explosion: Combine omega-rich cod with roasted Brussels sprouts, creating a healthy meal bursting with vitamins and delightful crispy textures.
• Restaurant-Quality Cooking at Home: Master professional-level cooking techniques with simple steps that transform basic ingredients into an elegant, restaurant-inspired dish.
• Customizable Comfort Bowl: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping rice with quinoa, adjusting seasonings, or adding your favorite herbs for a personalized dining experience.

Ingredients Needed For Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Cod Fillets: Delicate white fish that's mild and flaky, perfect for absorbing garlic and lemon flavors. Choose fresh, sustainably sourced cod for best results.

• Parsley, Lemon Zest: Bright, fresh herbs that add a zesty, clean flavor to the fish. Fresh parsley provides a vibrant green color and aromatic touch.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the cod and vegetables.
• Garlic Powder, Garlic: Provides deep, warm, and pungent flavor to both Brussels sprouts and fish.

• Rice, Quinoa: Hearty base grains that provide a nutritious foundation for the bowl. Choose white or brown rice, or protein-rich quinoa.
• Olive Oil: Helps roast Brussels sprouts and cook fish with a smooth, light flavor.
• Butter: Creates a rich, velvety sauce and helps brown the cod beautifully.
• Flour: Optional light coating that helps create a golden crust on the fish.
• Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic component that adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the fish.

How To Make Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Step 1: Prepare Crispy Brussels Sprouts

• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Spread them out on a baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20-25 minutes, giving them a quick flip halfway through. You want them golden brown and delightfully crispy around the edges.

Step 2: Sear Succulent Cod

Grab your cod fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. Optional: dust with a light layer of flour for extra crispiness. Heat a skillet with a blend of olive oil and butter. Toss in minced garlic and let it sizzle for 30 seconds until it’s wonderfully fragrant. Gently place the cod in the pan and cook 3-4 minutes per side. Watch for a beautiful golden crust and flaky texture. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish, sprinkle with lemon zest and chopped parsley. Spoon that irresistible garlic butter from the pan right on top.

Step 3: Create Delicious Bowls

Build your masterpiece by adding a base of fluffy rice or quinoa. Layer on those roasted Brussels sprouts and place the perfectly cooked cod on top. For an extra flavor punch, drizzle with additional lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley or an extra spoonful of that mouthwatering butter sauce.

Enjoy your restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Helpful Tips For Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Perfectly Crisp Brussels Sprouts: Pat Brussels sprouts dry before roasting to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent steaming. The key is spreading them in a single layer with enough space between each sprout for even browning.
• Flour Coating Trick: Lightly dusting cod with flour creates a delicate golden crust that helps seal in moisture and adds a subtle crunch to the fish. Use a minimal amount to avoid heavy breading.
• Prevent Overcooking Fish: Watch cod closely while cooking, as it cooks quickly and can become dry. The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, typically 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness.
• Flavor Boosting Technique: Brown butter and garlic together before adding fish to develop a deeper, nuttier flavor profile. The browned butter adds richness that elevates the entire dish.
• Quick Meal Prep Hack: Cook rice or quinoa in advance and store in the refrigerator to speed up assembly. This makes the recipe even faster for busy weeknight dinners.

Storage Tips For Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Refrigerate leftover cod and Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the fish and vegetables separate to maintain their individual textures.
• Store cooked rice or quinoa in a sealed container, ensuring it's completely cooled before refrigerating.
• Gently reheat fish in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking and preserve its delicate flakiness.
• When warming Brussels sprouts, use the oven at 350F for 5-7 minutes to help them retain their crispy edges.
• Avoid freezing this dish, as cod tends to lose its texture and become watery when thawed.
• For best quality, consume refrigerated leftovers within 48 hours and always check for any signs of spoilage before reheating.

Great Pairings With Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Refresh with Crisp White Wine: A chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio perfectly complements the delicate cod and cuts through the richness of the garlic butter, creating a bright and balanced flavor profile.
• Zesty Citrus Mocktail Pairing: Craft a homemade lemonade with fresh mint and a touch of sparkling water to mirror the lemon notes in the dish, enhancing the cod's citrusy undertones while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Herb-Infused Crusty Bread: Serve a warm, garlic-herb focaccia or sourdough bread alongside the bowl to soak up the delicious lemon garlic butter sauce, adding a satisfying textural element to the meal.
• Crisp Side Salad Companion: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan to add a peppery, fresh dimension that echoes the bright flavors of the cod and complements the roasted Brussels sprouts.

Twists You Can Try On Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Spicy Chili Cod Crunch: Replace garlic powder with smoked paprika and red chili flakes for a bold, fiery kick. Swap parsley with chopped cilantro to enhance the zesty flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Coat Brussels sprouts with dried oregano and thyme. Marinate cod in a mixture of lemon, white wine, and fresh rosemary before cooking to create a Mediterranean-inspired dish.
• Asian Fusion Seafood Bowl: Substitute olive oil with sesame oil. Season cod with ginger and soy sauce. Top the bowl with toasted sesame seeds and green onions for an authentic Asian flair.
• Pesto Coastal Remix: Blend fresh basil pesto into the butter sauce. Add sun-dried tomatoes to the roasted Brussels sprouts for a vibrant, herbaceous Mediterranean-style meal.

FAQs On Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts

FAQs for Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts:

• What if my cod fillets are frozen?

Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and ensure a crispy exterior.

• Can I substitute the cod with another fish?

Absolutely! Halibut, tilapia, or sea bass work great with this recipe. Just adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

• How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Typically, it takes 3-4 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour or skip the flour dusting entirely. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially if you’re sensitive to gluten.

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

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4.8 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory lemon garlic butter cod bowls blend Mediterranean flavors with fresh, zesty ingredients. Crisp brussels sprouts and succulent cod create a perfect harmony that delights seafood enthusiasts searching for a quick, nutritious meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1.5 pounds (680 grams) cod fillets, cut into portions
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Spices:

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for light coating)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

Cooking Oils and Additional Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound (454 grams) Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
• Extra lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Brussels sprouts by meticulously trimming and halving each vegetable, ensuring uniform size for even roasting. Massage with fragrant olive oil, then liberally season with garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
2. Arrange the seasoned Brussels sprouts cut-side down on a rimmed baking sheet, creating space between each piece to promote optimal caramelization. Slide into a preheated oven at 425F and roast until edges transform into crispy, golden-brown delights, approximately 20-25 minutes.
3. While vegetables roast, gently pat cod fillets completely dry using paper towels. Season with delicate pinches of salt and pepper, creating a light protective coating.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium flame, introducing a harmonious blend of olive oil and butter. Once the fat shimmers, introduce minced garlic and allow it to dance and release its aromatic essence for mere moments.
5. Carefully nestle seasoned cod into the fragrant pan, allowing each fillet to develop a golden, delicate crust. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until fish becomes opaque and effortlessly flakes.
6. Brighten the fish with a vibrant squeeze of fresh lemon juice, then scatter lemon zest and chopped parsley across the surface. Lovingly spoon the infused garlic butter over the cod.
7. Construct your culinary canvas by layering a foundation of fluffy rice or quinoa. Artfully arrange roasted Brussels sprouts and perfectly cooked cod atop the grains.
8. Finish the dish with an additional drizzle of lemon juice and a final sprinkle of fresh parsley, creating a visually stunning and flavor-packed meal.

Notes

• Choose fresh, firm cod fillets with a mild, sweet aroma to ensure the best flavor and texture for your dish.
• Pat the cod completely dry before seasoning to achieve a golden, crispy exterior when pan-searing.
• Dust cod with a light coating of flour for an extra-crispy crust that locks in moisture and creates a delicate texture.
• Roast Brussels sprouts until they have crispy, caramelized edges for maximum flavor and a satisfying crunch.
• Swap cod for other white fish like halibut or sea bass if unavailable, maintaining similar cooking techniques.
• Create a gluten-free version by using cornstarch or almond flour instead of traditional wheat flour for coating.
• For a lighter option, use less butter and opt for a heart-healthy olive oil alternative in the cooking process.
• Elevate the dish with additional herbs like dill or chives to complement the lemon and garlic flavors.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg