Let me tell you, there’s something magical about a dish that’s both simple and elegant, and my Garlic Butter Cod with Broccoli is just that! It’s a go-to for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy but still bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I made this; the aroma of garlic melting in butter filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! The cod comes out flaky and tender, while the bright, vibrant broccoli adds the perfect crunch. Plus, it’s ready in about 25 minutes! Seriously, it’s one of those meals that makes you feel like you’ve got your life together, even if you’re just throwing it together after a long day. You’ll love how it’s packed with protein and good-for-you ingredients, making it a wholesome choice for any dinner table. Trust me, this dish is going to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients List
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Cod with Broccoli
Alright, let’s get cooking! This part is super easy and so satisfying. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key to getting that perfect flaky cod.
- While the oven is warming up, grab a pan and melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and melted, add in the 4 cloves of minced garlic. Oh, the smell is going to be heavenly! Cook it for about a minute, just until it’s fragrant—don’t let it burn!
- Now, it’s time to season those cod fillets. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper to taste. You want to enhance the flavor of that buttery goodness!
- Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the pan with the garlic butter. Make sure to spoon some of that melted butter over the top of the fish. Trust me, this will make it extra yummy!
- Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish is flaky and opaque. It’s truly a thing of beauty!
- While the cod is baking, steam 2 cups of broccoli florets until they’re tender. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want them bright green and crisp!
- Once everything is ready, serve your flaky cod with the steamed broccoli on the side, and don’t forget those lemon wedges for a zesty finish!
And voilà! You’ve just created a wholesome, flavorful dinner that will impress everyone at your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, this meal is not just delicious but also a great choice for a balanced diet.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of garlic and butter creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the mild cod and perfectly complements the fresh broccoli.
- Satisfying Textures: You’ll love the flaky, tender fish paired with the crisp, vibrant broccoli—every bite is a delightful contrast!
- Easy Clean-Up: With just a pan and a baking dish, clean-up is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal and relax.
Tips for Success
Okay, let’s make sure your Garlic Butter Cod with Broccoli turns out absolutely perfect! First off, don’t be shy with the garlic—it adds such a wonderful flavor, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste. If you love a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the buttery cod.
Also, if you don’t have cod on hand, you can easily swap it for another white fish like tilapia or haddock; just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly. And remember, fresh broccoli is best, but frozen works in a pinch—just steam it until it’s tender. Lastly, for an extra touch of freshness, a squeeze of lemon over the top just before serving elevates the dish to a whole new level! Enjoy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutrition behind this delicious meal! My Garlic Butter Cod with Broccoli is not only tasty but also a healthy choice. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 25g
These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of the wholesome goodness packed into this dish! It’s a fantastic source of protein and healthy fats, making it not just a delicious option but a nutritious one too. Enjoy every bite without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen cod?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the cod completely before cooking. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it to ensure it flakes perfectly.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
If broccoli isn’t your thing, no problem! You can use green beans, asparagus, or even zucchini. Just steam them until tender for a delicious and colorful side!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I add other seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with spices. A sprinkle of paprika or some fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the flavors even more!
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
Your cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Trust me, you’ll know when it’s perfect—just look for that beautiful flakiness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No worries! Storing your Garlic Butter Cod with Broccoli is super easy and will keep those delicious flavors intact for your next meal. First, let the cod and broccoli cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. I love using glass containers because they keep everything fresh and are microwave-safe, but any airtight container will do the trick!
You can store your leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember to keep the cod and broccoli separate if you can, to maintain the best texture for both. When you’re ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop the cod and broccoli on a baking sheet. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You could also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just be sure to cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate to keep the moisture in!
And voilà! You’ve revived your meal without losing any of that scrumptious garlic butter goodness! Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this delightful Garlic Butter Cod with Broccoli, let’s talk about some perfect pairings to make your meal even more special! Here are a few ideas that will complement the flavors beautifully:
- Quinoa or Rice: A fluffy side of quinoa or jasmine rice is a fantastic way to soak up that luscious garlic butter sauce. Plus, it adds a nice texture to your plate!
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, creamy garlic mashed potatoes will take this meal to the next level. It’s comfort food at its finest!
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the cod. It’s a great way to get some extra veggies in!
- Roasted Asparagus: For a simple yet elegant side, roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese pairs perfectly with the fish!
- Couscous: Fluffy couscous with herbs and spices is another great option. It cooks quickly and adds a lovely flavor to the meal!
Feel free to mix and match or even throw in your favorite sides. The key is to create a meal that feels balanced and satisfying. Enjoy your lovely dinner gathering!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For a delightful side dish, consider making honey-glazed carrots to accompany your meal.
For a different take on seafood, try our garlic butter shrimp skillet recipe!
For more information on the health benefits of broccoli, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Garlic Butter Cod with Broccoli: 5-Minute Flavor Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and healthy dish featuring cod fillets cooked in garlic butter, served with steamed broccoli.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a pan, melt butter over medium heat and add minced garlic.
- Cook garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place cod fillets in the pan and spoon garlic butter over them.
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes until the fish is flaky.
- While the cod is baking, steam the broccoli until tender.
- Serve cod with steamed broccoli and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Adjust garlic amount based on your preference.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute cod with another white fish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with broccoli
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Cod, Broccoli, Healthy Dinner, Quick Recipe