Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

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Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts: A Fresh and Flavorful Meal

If you’re looking for a fresh and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor, Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts are the perfect option. This dish features succulent cod fillets, seasoned with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, paired with roasted Brussels sprouts that offer a delicious contrast of crispy edges and tender centers. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

This meal is all about balance. The light, flaky cod pairs perfectly with the rich, garlicky butter sauce, while the roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy, savory note that complements the fish perfectly. Not only is this dish loaded with flavor, but it’s also incredibly nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re preparing dinner for yourself or serving guests, this meal will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For the Cod

  • Cod Fillets: The cod fillets provide a delicate and mild flavor with a firm, flaky texture that holds up well when cooked. Rich in protein and low in fat, cod is a healthy choice for a light dinner.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is perfect for cooking the cod, helping to sear the fish and keep it moist while adding a hint of fruity flavor.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds aromatic depth to the cod, infusing the fish with a wonderful savory taste.
  • Lemon Juice: A dash of lemon juice gives the cod a fresh, citrusy zing that balances the richness of the butter sauce.
  • Dried Oregano: Oregano adds an earthy, slightly bitter note that pairs beautifully with the garlic and lemon.
  • Salt and Pepper: Basic salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, elevating the natural flavors of the cod.

For the Brussels Sprouts

  • Brussels Sprouts: The Brussels sprouts, halved for even roasting, provide a hearty, vegetable base for the bowl. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Tossing the Brussels sprouts in olive oil ensures they roast to a golden-brown, crispy texture while keeping them tender on the inside.
  • Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Garlic powder and onion powder add savory depth to the Brussels sprouts, perfectly complementing their slightly bitter taste.
  • Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are necessary to season the Brussels sprouts and enhance their flavor.

For the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

  • Butter: Butter is the base of this sauce, adding a rich, velvety texture that coats the fish and vegetables. The butter will be infused with garlic, making it the perfect complement to the cod and Brussels sprouts.
  • Garlic: More minced garlic is added to the butter sauce to intensify the flavor and provide a robust garlic profile.
  • Lemon Juice: Lemon juice enhances the brightness of the sauce, giving it a tangy note that cuts through the richness of the butter.
  • Chopped Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the sauce, balancing out the richness with its herby flavor.
  • Salt and Pepper: A pinch of salt and pepper season the sauce, rounding out the flavors and bringing everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1. Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your Brussels sprouts by trimming off the tough ends and cutting them in half. Place them in a large bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges, tossing halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.

2. Cook the Cod

While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cod fillets. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Sear the cod for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Once the cod is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh, herby note.

4. Assemble the Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls

To assemble the bowls, start with a generous portion of roasted Brussels sprouts in each bowl. Top with a piece of the cooked cod, gently breaking the fish into pieces. Drizzle the lemon garlic butter sauce over the cod and Brussels sprouts, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for a Healthy Meal

Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a healthy, balanced meal. The cod provides a high-quality protein source, while the Brussels sprouts offer fiber and essential vitamins. The lemon garlic butter sauce adds a rich flavor without overwhelming the dish, making it a satisfying yet light meal.

This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and can be easily customized to fit various dietary needs. Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet, this meal fits perfectly into your nutritional plan. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend dinner.

Final Thoughts on Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls

In conclusion, Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls with Roasted Brussels Sprouts offer a healthy and flavorful option for any meal. The lightness of the cod, combined with the rich, savory butter sauce and crispy Brussels sprouts, creates a perfectly balanced dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re a fan of fish or just looking for a new dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

So, gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy this delicious and wholesome meal that’s bursting with flavor and goodness!

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