Saltwater Poached Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce and Steamed Asparagus

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Delicate cod fillets gently poached in a savory saltwater broth, served with a bright lemon dill sauce and tender steamed asparagus. This mediterranean-inspired seafood ready in about 25 minutes blends (5 oz each) cod fillets, water, kosher salt into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large skillet, bring 4 cups water and 2 tbsp kosher salt to a gentle simmer over medium heat to create a saltwater poaching liquid.
  2. Step 2: Add 4 cod fillets to the simmering water, ensuring they are submerged. Poach gently for 7-8 minutes until opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  3. Step 3: Meanwhile, steam 1 lb trimmed asparagus spears over boiling water for 4-5 minutes until crisp-tender. Toss steamed asparagus with 1 tbsp unsalted butter and 1 tsp olive oil.
  4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/4 tsp white pepper until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Remove cod from poaching liquid with a slotted spatula, place on serving plates, and spoon the lemon dill sauce over the top. Serve immediately with buttered asparagus.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Saltwater Poached Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce and Steamed Asparagus take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Saltwater Poached Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce and Steamed Asparagus?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Saltwater Poached Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce and Steamed Asparagus?

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 Saltwater Poached Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce and Steamed Asparagus 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.

What goes well with Saltwater Poached Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce and Steamed Asparagus?

Mediterranean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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