Grilled Lemon Caper Cod

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Fish

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz / 170 g each)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Lemon Butter Caper Sauce

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 2 tbsp capers, drained

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 2 tbsp chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for a lighter sauce)

For Garnish

• Grilled lemon slices

• Extra parsley

• Fresh cracked black pepper

Instructions

Step 1 – Season the Fish

Pat the cod completely dry with paper towels.

Brush both sides with olive oil.

Season with:

• Garlic powder

• Paprika

• Onion powder

• Salt

• Black pepper

Let stand for 10 minutes.

Step 2 – Grill the Cod

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.

Lightly oil the surface.

Cook the cod for 4–5 minutes per side until:

• Beautiful grill marks appear

• The fish flakes easily with a fork

• Internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C)

Remove and keep warm.

Step 3 – Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium.

Melt the butter.

Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.

Stir in:

• Lemon juice

• Lemon zest

• Broth (if using)

Simmer for 2 minutes.

Add capers and parsley.

Cook another minute.

Step 4 – Finish

Place the grilled cod onto serving plates.

Spoon the warm lemon butter caper sauce generously over each fillet.

Top with grilled lemon slices and fresh parsley.

Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

• Patting the cod dry helps create a golden crust.

• Avoid overcooking—cod becomes dry quickly.

• Fresh lemon juice provides the brightest flavor.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

• A cast-iron grill pan creates beautiful char marks if cooking indoors.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted asparagus

• Steamed broccoli

• Rice pilaf

• Buttered green beans

• Fresh garden salad

• Crusty artisan bread

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~360 kcal

• Protein: 36 g

• Carbohydrates: 4 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Fiber: <1 g

• Sugar: 1 g

• Sodium: 480 mg

Serving Description

Tender grilled cod is seasoned with smoky spices and finished with a vibrant lemon butter caper sauce. The combination of bright citrus, briny capers, fragrant garlic, and fresh parsley perfectly complements the flaky fish, creating a light yet elegant seafood dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes.