Ingredients
Scale
Let’s gather the essentials for this delightful dish. You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already, and if not, they’re easy to find.
- 1 pound cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for a hint of warmth)
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (or quinoa for a lighter option)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to swap cod with another white fish like haddock or tilapia if that’s what you have on hand. And if you’re out of brown rice, any grain will work—it’s all about making do with what you have, just like mom used to do.
Instructions
- Start by patting the cod pieces dry with paper towels. This helps them sear beautifully. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. The aroma always reminds me of cozy evenings at home.
- Add the cod pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the cod cooks, squeeze the lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle the zest. This adds a bright, tangy note that brings everything together.
- In a serving bowl, layer the cooked brown rice, placing the cod on top. Add the cherry tomatoes and avocado slices around the fish.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately, and enjoy the symphony of flavors with each bite.
Remember to taste as you go. Cooking is an art, not a science, and little adjustments can make a big difference in the final dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls, recipe, cooking, food
