Description
This Pan Seared Cod with Tarragon Cream Sauce is a flavorful and elegant seafood dish that features tender cod fillets seared to perfection and served with a rich, creamy sauce infused with fresh tarragon and white wine. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cod:
- 1.5 lbs cod fillets
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
For the Tarragon Cream Sauce:
- 1 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp minced fresh tarragon
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps to get a nice sear on the fish.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Pan Sear the Cod: Add the cod fillets to the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side without moving, until the fish is golden brown and caramelized. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes or until cooked through and opaque.
- Remove Cod and Rest: Transfer the cooked cod fillets to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Make the Tarragon Cream Sauce: Using the same skillet, add 1 cup of white wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom as this adds flavor. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by about half, which should take 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cream and Tarragon: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of minced fresh tarragon. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cod to the skillet briefly to warm through with the sauce, then plate the fish and spoon the tarragon cream sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh cod fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- Fresh tarragon is preferred to dried for a bright, aromatic taste.
- You can substitute white wine with dry vermouth or chicken stock if preferred.
- Do not overcook the cod as it will become dry; it cooks quickly at high heat.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Keywords: cod recipe, pan seared cod, tarragon cream sauce, seafood dinner, quick fish recipe, creamy sauce, white wine sauce