Cod is a delicate, flaky fish that’s perfect for a variety of dishes, and when paired with lemon butter, it becomes a truly exquisite meal. My aunt’s Slow Cooker Lemon Butter Cod recipe is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of home-cooked meals. This dish is easy to prepare, yet it delivers a sophisticated flavor that will impress your family and friends.
My aunt’s Slow Cooker Lemon Butter Cod recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender cod, zesty lemon, and buttery goodness is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy creating and sharing this elegant dish with your loved ones! Let’s dive into how to make this delightful Slow Cooker Lemon Butter Cod.
INGREDIENTS:
To create this flavorful Slow Cooker Lemon Butter Cod, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 1.5 to 2 pounds total)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare the Cod Fillets: Start by rinsing the cod fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture and ensures the fillets cook evenly.
- Mix the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined to create a rich and tangy lemon butter sauce.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Place the cod fillets in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring each fillet is well-coated. The sauce will infuse the fish with flavor as it cooks.
- Cook the Cod: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook, as cod is a delicate fish and can become dry if cooked too long.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cod is cooked, carefully remove the fillets from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon any remaining lemon butter sauce over the top of the fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a burst of color and added freshness.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal. Place the vegetables under the cod fillets to ensure they cook evenly.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as dill, thyme, or basil to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute lime or orange juice and zest for a different citrusy flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold on a salad.
Serving Suggestions
Slow Cooker Lemon Butter Cod pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Rice or Quinoa: The lemon butter sauce drizzled over a bed of rice or quinoa creates a flavorful, satisfying meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the cod alongside roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich, buttery cod.