Introduction
Looking for a healthy, flavorful, and quick weeknight dinner? Look no further than this Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Quinoa and Spinach! This recipe combines flaky cod with a vibrant lemon garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of nutrient-rich quinoa and spinach. It’s a complete meal packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy professionals, families, or anyone looking to add a delicious and healthy meal to their repertoire.
Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound cod fillets, skinless
- 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, fresh
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 5 ounces fresh spinach
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Gently place the cod fillets into the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the cod.
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets.
- While the cod is cooking, gently wilt the spinach. You can do this by adding it to a separate pan with a little olive oil or simply adding it to the skillet with the cod during the last minute of cooking.
- To serve, divide the cooked quinoa and wilted spinach between plates. Top with the lemon garlic butter cod.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
Tips for Perfect Cod
- **Don’t Overcook:** Cod is delicate and can easily become dry if overcooked. Cook just until it flakes easily with a fork.
- **Fresh is Best:** Use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking.
- **Season Generously:** Seasoning the cod well with salt and pepper is crucial for enhancing its natural flavor.
- **Adjust the Sauce:** Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice, garlic, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
Quinoa and Spinach Benefits
Quinoa: A Nutritional Powerhouse
- **Complete Protein:** Quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.
- **Rich in Fiber:** High in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and helps you feel full.
- **Good Source of Minerals:** Contains iron, magnesium, and manganese.
Spinach: Leafy Green Goodness
- **Vitamins and Minerals:** Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
- **Antioxidants:** Contains antioxidants that protect against cell damage.
- **Low in Calories:** A nutrient-dense, low-calorie addition to any meal.
Variations and Substitutions
- **Fish:** Substitute cod with other white fish such as haddock, tilapia, or sea bass.
- **Greens:** Replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
- **Grains:** Use couscous or brown rice instead of quinoa.
- **Dairy-Free:** Substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil.
- **Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Conclusion
This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod with Quinoa and Spinach is a winner for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-prepare meal. The combination of flaky cod, tangy lemon garlic butter sauce, and nutritious quinoa and spinach makes for a satisfying and guilt-free dinner. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful and wholesome meal that your whole family will love!
