Description
Cod Piccata is a vibrant, flavor-packed twist on the classic Italian dish. With tender cod fillets seared to perfection and finished in a buttery lemon-caper sauce, it’s elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. This light yet indulgent meal comes together quickly and delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Ingredients
-
4 cod fillets (5 oz each), skinless and boneless
-
½ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
-
1 tsp salt
-
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
-
⅓ cup dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
-
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
-
2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
-
Prep the cod: Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
-
Dredge: Lightly coat each fillet in flour, shaking off the excess.
-
Sear the fish: Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Sear cod for 3–4 minutes per side without moving, until golden and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
-
Build the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
-
Deglaze: Add white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
-
Add flavor: Stir in lemon juice and capers. Let simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
-
Finish the dish: Return cod to the pan and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer gently for 1 minute to warm through.
-
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite side dish.
Notes
-
Use rice flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
-
For added richness, stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
-
Serve with angel hair pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
-
Cod can be substituted with halibut, tilapia, or even shrimp.
-
Store leftovers separately: fish and sauce in different containers. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: dinner
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 310 per serving
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 32g