Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Zesty Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls: A Fresh Dinner Recipe

Delightful lemon garlic butter cod brings a burst of coastal comfort to your weeknight dinner routine.

Mediterranean flavors dance across this simple yet elegant dish.

Fresh cod fillets nestle perfectly alongside crisp roasted brussels sprouts.

Buttery notes blend seamlessly with zesty citrus undertones.

Bright ingredients create a balanced meal that feels both sophisticated and approachable.

Minimal preparation meets maximum satisfaction in this quick, nutritious recipe.

Dive into this culinary adventure and savor every magnificent bite.

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowl Benefits

Directions for Making Cod Bowls
  • Quick and Delightful Meal: Prepare a restaurant-quality dish in minimal steps, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet experience that feels like a culinary adventure.
  • Nutrition-Packed Powerhouse: Combine protein-rich cod with fiber-loaded Brussels sprouts, creating a balanced meal that supports healthy eating without sacrificing incredible flavor.
  • Adaptable Kitchen Magic: Customize the recipe by swapping cod with other fish, adjusting seasonings, or adding extra vegetables to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Stress-Free Cooking Technique: Master a straightforward cooking method using basic kitchen tools like a skillet and baking sheet, making this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients for Cod Bowls and Sprouts

For the Main Ingredients:
  • Cod Fillets: A delicate white fish that absorbs flavors beautifully and provides a tender, flaky protein base for the dish.
  • Brussels Sprouts: Small cabbage-like vegetables that become crispy and caramelized when roasted, adding a nutty flavor and nutritional boost.
For the Seasonings:
  • Garlic, Garlic Powder: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor that enhances both the cod and Brussels sprouts.
  • Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper: Essential for seasoning and creating a flavorful base for roasting and cooking.
  • Lemon Juice: Provides a bright, citrusy tang that complements the fish and cuts through richness.
For the Sauce and Herbs:
  • Butter: Creates a rich, smooth sauce that adds luxurious flavor to the dish.
  • Parsley, Oregano: Fresh herbs that contribute a pop of green color and a subtle, fresh herbaceous note.
  • Onion Powder: Adds a mild, sweet background flavor to the seasoning blend.

Directions for Making Cod Bowls

Directions for Making Cod Bowls

Step 1: Prepare Brussels Sprouts

Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Grab the Brussels sprouts and toss them with a blend of:
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Spread the seasoned sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.

Roast for 20-25 minutes until they become tender and slightly crispy.

Step 2: Season Cod Fillets

In a mixing bowl, combine the cod fillets with:
  • Olive oil
  • Minced garlic
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Dried oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Gently coat the fish with the seasonings, ensuring even coverage.

Step 3: Sear Cod to Perfection

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the pan.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the fish is fully cooked and develops a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Craft Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Stir in:
  • Lemon juice
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Let the flavors meld together for a rich, zesty sauce.

Step 5: Create Delicious Bowls

Divide the roasted Brussels sprouts among serving bowls. Carefully place the perfectly cooked cod on top of the sprouts.

Generously drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce over the fish, allowing it to cascade down and infuse every bite with incredible flavor.

Tips That Help with Cod Bowls

  • Swap cod with salmon or halibut for a different protein option that works beautifully with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
  • Ensure Brussels sprouts are cut into similar sizes for even roasting and crispy edges that enhance their flavor.
  • Pat cod fillets dry before seasoning to help achieve a perfectly golden-brown crust when cooking.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest, most vibrant flavor in the butter sauce, avoiding bottled alternatives.
  • Consider adding quinoa or brown rice as a base for extra nutrients and to make the dish more filling and satisfying.

Ways to Change Up Cod Bowls

  • Herb-Crusted Cod Variation: Replace oregano with a mix of fresh thyme, rosemary, and dill for an aromatic herb-infused flavor profile.
  • Mediterranean-Style Variation: Swap Brussels sprouts with roasted zucchini and add kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese for a Greek-inspired bowl.
  • Spicy Cajun Cod Variation: Season cod with Cajun spice blend instead of herbs, use cayenne pepper for extra heat, and add sliced bell peppers to the roasted vegetables.
  • Gluten-Free Omega Bowl: Use cauliflower rice as a base, replace butter with olive oil for those with dairy restrictions, and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free.

What Tastes Good with Cod Bowls

  • Pair Zesty White Wine: Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly complements the bright lemon and delicate cod flavors, cutting through the richness of the butter sauce.
  • Create Herb-Infused Cocktail: Mix a refreshing gin and tonic with fresh lemon thyme and a splash of elderflower liqueur to echo the dish's herbal and citrus notes.
  • Serve Citrus-Inspired Side Salad: Toss mixed greens with segments of blood orange, shaved fennel, and a light champagne vinaigrette to enhance the meal's bright, tangy profile.
  • Select Crisp Mineral Water: Sparkling water with a slice of lemon adds a clean, palate-cleansing element that highlights the seafood's delicate texture and lemony undertones.

How to Store Cod Bowl Leftovers

Store leftover cod and Brussels sprouts in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the lemon garlic butter sauce in a small sealed jar.

Gently warm cod in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes to prevent overcooking. Alternatively, microwave on 50% power for 30-45 seconds.

Quickly reheat Brussels sprouts in a 350F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave to maintain texture.

Briefly warm the lemon garlic butter sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent separation.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen cod completely in the refrigerator overnight before seasoning and cooking. Pat the fish dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.

  • Is there a substitute for cod if I can't find it?

Absolutely! You can replace cod with other white fish like halibut, tilapia, or haddock. These fish have similar mild flavors and flaky textures that work well in this recipe.

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

The cod is done when it turns opaque white and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Overcooking can make the fish dry, so watch it carefully during cooking.

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Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls With Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe


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4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Zesty lemon garlic butter cod bowls bring coastal flavors to your dinner table with Mediterranean-inspired elegance. Roasted brussels sprouts and tender fish create a perfect harmony of fresh ingredients and bold seasonings you’ll crave.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) cod fillets
  • 1 pound (454 grams) brussels sprouts

Fish and Seafood Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce and Additional Seasonings:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 400F (200C) and arrange a baking rack in the middle position. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil and a blend of garlic and onion powders, seasoning generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor profiles.
  2. Spread Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring maximum caramelization and even roasting. Roast for 20-25 minutes until edges turn golden and crispy with a tender interior.
  3. While vegetables roast, marinate cod fillets in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper to infuse deep, zesty flavors.
  4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high temperature. Carefully place marinated cod fillets into the hot pan, cooking approximately 3-4 minutes per side until fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Create a luxurious sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly until aromatic, then incorporate fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Construct individual serving bowls by distributing roasted Brussels sprouts as a base. Gently place perfectly cooked cod fillets on top and generously drizzle with the vibrant lemon garlic butter sauce.

Notes

  • Swap cod for other white fish like halibut or tilapia for variety in flavor and texture.
  • Use gluten-free alternatives like tamari instead of regular sauces to make the dish celiac-friendly.
  • Reduce cooking time for Brussels sprouts by cutting them in half for crispier edges and faster roasting.
  • Add fresh herbs like dill or chives on top for an extra burst of brightness and freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 360 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 210 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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