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Cajun Garlic Butter Cod with Asparagus Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

This Cajun Garlic Butter Cod recipe features tender cod fillets seasoned with a robust blend of Cajun spices, garlic, and smoked paprika, then seared to perfection and simmered in a flavorful garlic butter sauce with asparagus. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish is a quick yet elegant seafood meal bursting with bold flavors and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 cod fillets (or cod loin)
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt

For Searing and Sauce

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
  • 6 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 shallot (finely chopped)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp chili flakes
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

Vegetables and Garnish

  • 8 ounces asparagus
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (more for serving)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare Ingredients: Finely chop the shallot, mince the garlic cloves, and chop the parsley. If the asparagus stalks are large, slice them lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
  3. Sear the Cod: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the cod fillets and sear for 3 minutes on one side. Carefully flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove the fillets from the skillet and place on a clean plate.
  4. Cook Aromatics and Build Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot to the skillet. Cook stirring frequently for about 2 minutes until softened and aromatic. Stir in the salt, black pepper, dried sage, smoked paprika, and chili flakes to infuse the sauce with flavor.
  5. Add Broth and Butter: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and stir until completely melted and incorporated into the sauce.
  6. Simmer Vegetables: Add the asparagus and chopped parsley to the skillet. Let them cook in the simmering sauce for about 3 minutes, allowing the asparagus to soften but remain crisp and vibrant.
  7. Finish with Cod: Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet. Simmer gently for an additional 3 minutes or until the fish is just heated through and infused with the garlic butter sauce flavors.
  8. Serve: Remove from heat and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Make sure not to overcook the cod; it should be just opaque and flake easily.
  • If you prefer, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
  • Cajun seasoning blends vary in salt content; adjust added salt accordingly.
  • For a spicier kick, increase chili flakes to ½ teaspoon.
  • Asparagus can be substituted with green beans or broccolini if desired.

Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/cajun-garlic-butter-cod-with-asparagus-recipe/