When it comes to seafood, few options are as versatile and flavorful as Pacific cod. With its firm texture and mild taste, this whitefish is a canvas waiting for your culinary creativity. From classic dishes to innovative twists, we’ve curated 18 mouth-watering Pacific cod recipes that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the world of Pacific cod cooking, showcasing a range of recipes that highlight its adaptability and taste. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are sure to inspire your next seafood adventure.
Pan-Seared Pacific Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce
A flavorful and elegant dish that highlights the delicate flavor of Pacific cod. This recipe combines the freshness of lemon with the richness of butter, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pacific cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and cook until melted, about 2 minutes.
4. Sear cod for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove cod from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add lemon juice and garlic to the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes.
7. Serve cod with lemon butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Pacific Cod with Garlic and Herbs
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of Pacific cod with the pungency of garlic and a hint of herbs, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pacific cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, parsley, and thyme.
5. Spoon the garlic mixture evenly over each cod fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pacific Cod Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the fusion of flavors from the Pacific coast and tropical Mexico with these mouthwatering Pacific Cod Tacos, topped with a sweet and tangy Mango Salsa.
Ingredients:
For the cod:
– 1 pound Pacific cod fillets
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the mango salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season cod with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
3. Dip fillets in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango salsa ingredients in a bowl. Stir to combine.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by placing cod on tortillas and topping with mango salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Pacific Cod with Chimichurri
This refreshing recipe combines the delicate flavor of grilled Pacific cod with the zesty tang of Argentinean-style chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pacific cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Mix well to make chimichurri sauce.
3. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill cod for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pacific Cod Chowder with Corn and Bacon
Pacific Cod Chowder with Corn and Bacon Recipe
Get ready for a hearty and flavorful soup that combines the tender Pacific cod, sweet corn, and smoky bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Pacific cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, and zucchini)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables, fish stock, and frozen corn kernels. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
5. Add Pacific cod pieces and cook until the fish is cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pacific Cod Ceviche with Avocado
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the flaky texture of Pacific cod with creamy avocado and a squeeze of citrus. Perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Pacific cod, cut into small pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cod pieces and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Just before serving, stir in diced avocado and chopped cilantro.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
4. If desired, add chopped jalapeño pepper for an extra kick of heat.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours (depending on marinating time)
Pacific Cod Fish and Chips with Tartar Sauce
Savor the flaky Pacific cod paired with crispy batter and served with a creamy tartar sauce for a delightful seafood treat. This classic fish and chips recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of Pacific cod, skin removed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each piece of cod into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated cod for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain the fish on paper towels. Serve with tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pacific Cod with Tomato and Olive Stew
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet satisfying stew. Pacific cod pairs perfectly with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Pacific cod, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the cod and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until opaque and flaky. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and sliced olives to the pan. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes have broken down slightly.
5. Return the cod to the pan and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pacific Cod Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing bowl combines the tender flaky flesh of Pacific cod, the crunch of toasted sesame seeds, and a tangy sesame dressing, all on top of a bed of fluffy Japanese rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Pacific cod fillet, cut into small pieces
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tsp sesame seeds
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame dressing (recipe below)
Sesame Dressing:
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
2. Add the Pacific cod pieces to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
4. Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant.
5. Assemble the poke bowl by placing cooked rice, marinated cod, and toasted sesame seeds on a plate.
6. Drizzle with Sesame Dressing (mix all ingredients together) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pacific Cod en Papillote with Vegetables
This classic French cooking technique, also known as “en papillote,” allows the fish to cook gently in its own juices, while a flavorful broth infuses the dish with aroma and taste. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pacific cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup fish broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place a cod fillet on each piece of parchment paper.
3. Divide the vegetables among the cod, leaving a small border around each filet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic and salt.
5. Fold the parchment paper over the fish, creating a tight seal.
6. Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pacific Cod Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the rich flavors of the Pacific Ocean with this aromatic curry dish featuring tender Pacific cod and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Pacific cod, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cod and season with salt and pepper; cook until opaque and flaky.
5. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pacific Cod Burgers with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful Pacific cod burgers, topped with a spicy kick from sriracha mayonnaise.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound Pacific cod fillet, cut into 4-ounce patties
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• Sriracha mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat each cod patty with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Brush grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill cod patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble burgers on buns with desired toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomato, pickles).
6. Spread sriracha mayonnaise on top of each burger.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Pacific Cod Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
This recipe brings together the flavors of the Pacific Northwest, featuring tender Pacific cod paired with the warmth of ginger and the savory richness of soy sauce. A quick and easy stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Pacific cod fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cod and cook for 3-4 minutes, until opaque and flaky.
3. Remove the cod from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, ginger, and garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the cod to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pacific Cod with Almond and Brown Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish featuring succulent Pacific Cod, toasted almonds, and a rich brown butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pacific Cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add almonds and cook until toasted, stirring frequently (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Cook until browned and nutty-smelling (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
6. Place cod fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve cod with toasted almonds and brown butter sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pacific Cod Piccata with Capers
A light and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring Pacific cod, capers, and a zesty lemon sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pacific cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix flour, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Dredge cod in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod and cook 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Transfer cod to a baking sheet and keep warm.
6. In the same skillet, add wine (if using), chicken broth, lemon juice, and mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Stir in capers and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Serve cod with the caper-lemon sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pacific Cod Risotto with Peas and Lemon
This creamy risotto pairs perfectly with the flaky texture of Pacific cod, while a squeeze of lemon and sweetness from peas add a burst of freshness to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish stock, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 oz Pacific cod fillet, cooked through
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Arborio rice; cook 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
2. Add wine (if using) and stir until absorbed. Then add 1/2 cup stock; stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat process, adding stock in 1/2 cup increments, waiting for it to be mostly absorbed before adding more. This should take about 20-25 minutes.
3. Stir in peas, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve risotto alongside cooked Pacific cod fillet.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pacific Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This recipe combines the flaky texture of Pacific cod with a sweet and smoky roasted red pepper sauce, creating a flavorful and visually appealing dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 Pacific cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzling with olive oil, and sprinkling with garlic. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered.
3. Remove peppers from oven, let cool, then peel off skin, discarding it.
4. Chop roasted peppers into small pieces and stir in parsley.
5. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook cod in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
7. Serve cod with roasted red pepper sauce spooned on top. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pacific Cod Sushi Rolls with Wasabi
Experience the freshness of Pacific cod and the kick of wasabi in this simple yet flavorful sushi recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade Pacific cod, sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup short-grain Japanese rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for serving)
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced daikon radish for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the Pacific cod into thin strips, about 3 inches long.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place two pieces of Pacific cod in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or a clean tea towel, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with wasabi paste on the side.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparing the ingredients) + 1-2 minutes per piece for serving
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the delicious world of Pacific cod! This versatile fish offers a wide range of flavors and textures. From classic dishes like pan-seared cod with lemon butter sauce to bold fusion recipes like pacific cod tacos with mango salsa, there’s something for every seafood lover. Other mouth-watering options include baked cod with garlic and herbs, grilled cod with chimichurri, and many more. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of chowder or a refreshing ceviche, these 18 flavorful Pacific cod recipes will take your taste buds on a culinary journey.
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