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Pan Seared Cod with Tarragon Cream Sauce Recipe

★★★★★ 4.7 from 50 reviews
  • Author: Touba
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: French
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Pan Seared Cod with Tarragon Cream Sauce features tender, flaky cod fillets seared to golden perfection and topped with a luscious cream sauce infused with fresh tarragon and white wine. The combination of delicate fish and aromatic sauce makes for an elegant yet simple dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 1.5 lbs cod fillets
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil

Sauce

  • 1 cup white wine
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp minced fresh tarragon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a nice sear.
  2. 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.
  3. Pan Sear the Cod: Carefully place the cod fillets in the hot skillet. Cook without moving for about 4-5 minutes until the underside is golden brown and the fish releases easily from the pan.
  4. Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the cod fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate.
  5. Deglaze the Pan: Pour 1 cup of white wine into the hot skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by about half over medium heat, which should take roughly 3-5 minutes.
  6. Add Cream and Tarragon: Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon minced fresh tarragon. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Serve: Pour the tarragon cream sauce over the cooked cod fillets and serve immediately. Enjoy your elegant and flavorful meal!

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh cod fillets that are firm and not frozen.
  • If white wine is not available, dry vermouth or lemon juice mixed with chicken broth can be a good substitute.
  • Adjust the amount of tarragon to your preference; fresh tarragon delivers the best flavor impact.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
  • Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan to prevent the fish from sticking.

Keywords: cod recipe, pan seared cod, tarragon cream sauce, easy seafood dinner, white wine sauce, healthy fish recipe

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Find it online: https://toubaeasts.com/pan-seared-cod-with-tarragon-cream-sauce-recipe/