Pan-Fried Cod with Garlic and Saffron Rice

Tender cod fillets seared to golden perfection and served over fragrant saffron rice with garlic and lemon, a simple yet elegant dish that celebrates coastal flavors.

Cuisine: American

Category: Seafood

Prep: 15 minutes. Cook: 25 minutes.

Serves 2.

Ingredients

• 12 oz cod fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 tsp saffron threads
• 1 cup short-grain rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 lemon
• 2 tbsp parsley
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse rice under cold water until clear, then drain. In a saucepan, combine rice, water, saffron, salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper; bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Step 2: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Pat cod dry with paper towels and season with salt and remaining black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4. Step 4: Add cod and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and flaky; transfer to a plate.
5. Step 5: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon zest and juice, then return cod to the skillet.
6. Step 6: Fluff rice with a fork, top with cod, and spoon garlic-lemon sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.