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30-Minute Crispy Pan Seared Cod Perfection

pan seared cod

A healthy and flavorful pan-seared cod served with rice and fresh avocado salsa topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), patted dry
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati)
  • 1 cup green peas (thawed if frozen)
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 tbsp finely diced red onion
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Pinch salt

Instructions

  1. Make the salsa: In a bowl, gently mix avocado, tomatoes, shredded carrots, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  2. Season the cod: Mix paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle over both sides of the cod.
  3. Sear the cod: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod and cook 3–4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden and flaky. Add butter in the last minute if using, then finish with 1 tbsp lime juice.
  4. Finish the rice: Stir peas, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt into warm cooked rice.
  5. Serve: Spoon rice into bowls, top with seared cod, and finish with the avocado veggie salsa.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Pat the cod dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy sear.
  • Add more veggies to the salsa if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: pan seared cod, healthy cod recipe, cod and rice bowl, avocado salsa topping, easy seafood dinner, meal prep fish