Pan-Seared Cod with Golden Turmeric Rice and Citrus Herb Salad
Tender pan-seared cod fillets served over fragrant turmeric-infused rice with a fresh citrus and herb salad for brightness. This mediterranean-inspired seafood (gluten free) ready in about 30 minutes pairs 6 oz each cod fillets, turmeric powder, basmati rice for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces, 6 oz each cod fillets
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 medium, segmented and juiced orange
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 small, thinly sliced red onion
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse 1 cup basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, 2 cups water, 1 tsp turmeric powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is fluffy.
- Step 2: While rice cooks, pat dry 4 cod fillets and season each with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod fillets and sear for 4 minutes on each side until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 medium segmented orange, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, 1/4 cup chopped mint, 1/4 small thinly sliced red onion, and 2 tbsp lemon juice. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and toss gently to combine.
- Step 4: Serve the seared cod over a bed of turmeric rice, topped with the citrus herb salad for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Pan-Seared Cod with Golden Turmeric Rice and Citrus Herb Salad take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (10 min prep + 20 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Cod with Golden Turmeric Rice and Citrus Herb Salad?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep 6 oz each cod fillets from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Cod with Golden Turmeric Rice and Citrus Herb Salad?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Pan-Seared Cod with Golden Turmeric Rice and Citrus Herb Salad for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Pan-Seared Cod with Golden Turmeric Rice and Citrus Herb Salad gluten free?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★★
Loved the balance of flavors. The turmeric rice was golden and aromatic. Easy to make.
- ★★★★★
This recipe was a hit! The citrus herb salad cut through the richness of the fish. Will make again.
- ★★★★★
The cod was perfectly seared and the turmeric rice was fragrant. My family loved it for dinner.