Pan Seared Lemon Herb Cod With Garlic Spinach Recipe

English cuisine · 1 servings · 280 calories

Pan Seared Lemon Herb Cod with Garlic Spinach recipe

About this recipe

Pan-Seared Lemon Herb Cod with Garlic Spinach is a perfect choice for those seeking a light yet nutritious dinner option. This English-inspired dish combines the mild, flaky texture of cod fillets with the bright flavors of lemon and earthy thyme, creating a harmonious balance of taste and aroma. The cod is complemented by a vibrant side of sautéed spinach infused with garlic, offering a nutrient-packed accompaniment. With 37g of protein, this meal is ideal for maintaining muscle health while staying under 510 calories per serving. The cooking process is straightforward, requiring minimal prep and delivering quick results, making it suitable for busy evenings or casual dining. Whether you're looking for a wholesome meal or a fresh take on classic English flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

  • 250G Leap Msc Cod Loin
  • 1 Lemon - 1 Each
  • 1 Garlic Bulb - 1 Each
  • 1 Bunch Spinach Fresh 1 Bunch
  • 140G Greenfields Mixed Herbs, 140G
  • - Maldon Flakes Sea Salt
  • 100G Heera Black Pepper Powder 100g
  • - Thyme Bunched Herb
  • 125G Grissini Traditional Extra Virgin Olive Oil Breadsticks, 125G

Instructions

  1. 1. Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  2. 2. Season the fillets evenly with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme on both sides.
  3. 3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat until shimmering.
  4. 4. Place the cod fillets in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and flaky.
  5. 5. Squeeze half a lemon over the fillets while they cook to enhance the flavor.
  6. 6. Remove the cod fillets from the pan and set them aside on a plate, keeping them warm.
  7. 7. In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic cloves.
  8. 8. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  9. 9. Add the spinach leaves to the pan and toss them gently to coat in the garlic oil.
  10. 10. Cook the spinach for 2-3 minutes until wilted, stirring occasionally.
  11. 11. Plate the sautéed spinach alongside the cod fillets for serving.
  12. 12. Garnish the dish with thin lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired.

How to make Pan Seared Lemon Herb Cod With Garlic Spinach

  1. Season the cod. Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel, then season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper and dried thyme.
  2. Sear the cod. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat until shimmering. Cook the cod for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and flaky, squeezing half a lemon over as it cooks.
  3. Keep the fish warm. Lift the cooked cod fillets out of the pan onto a plate and keep them warm while you use the same pan for the spinach.
  4. Cook the garlic spinach. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds without burning. Toss in the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  5. Plate and garnish. Plate the garlic spinach alongside the cod fillets and garnish with thin lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh thyme if you like.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan Seared Lemon Herb Cod with Garlic Spinach take?
About 30 minutes in total, with 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking the fish and wilting the spinach.
How do I stop cod falling apart in the pan?
Pat the fillets completely dry, heat the oil until shimmering and leave the fish untouched until golden before turning it once. The crust helps the flaky flesh release cleanly.
Can I use another white fish instead of cod?
Swap it for haddock, hake or pollock fillets of a similar thickness. They cook in roughly the same time and suit the lemon, thyme and garlic flavours just as well.
What goes well with Pan Seared Lemon Herb Cod with Garlic Spinach?
Serve it with crushed new potatoes, buttery mash or crusty bread to soak up the lemony pan juices. A few breadsticks on the side add a welcome crunch.
Is this lemon herb cod dish vegetarian?
No, it contains cod fillets, so it is not vegetarian. The garlic spinach alongside is simply spinach, garlic, olive oil and seasoning.