These Lemon Garlic Butter Cod Bowls are bright, buttery, and balanced. Flaky cod is pan-seared in lemon garlic butter and served over rice or quinoa with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts. A drizzle of extra lemon and fresh herbs makes this a feel-good bowl that’s full of flavor and texture.
For the Cod:
1 1/2 lbs cod fillets, cut into portions
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for light coating)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Brussels Sprouts:
1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowls:
2 cups cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
Extra lemon wedges, for serving
Roast the Brussels sprouts:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet.
Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned and crispy on the edges.
Cook the cod:
Pat cod fillets dry and season with salt and pepper. Lightly dust with flour if using.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add cod and cook 3–4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden and flaky.
Squeeze lemon juice over fish, sprinkle with zest and parsley, and spoon garlic butter from the pan over the top.
Assemble the bowls:
Add rice or quinoa to each bowl, top with roasted Brussels sprouts and cod fillets.
Drizzle with extra lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley or more butter sauce, if desired.
Cod can be swapped with halibut, tilapia, or salmon.
Add avocado or a soft-boiled egg for extra richness.
Make it low-carb by using cauliflower rice or greens as the base.