Slow Cooker Lemon Butter Cod: A Simple and Elegant Dish from My Aunt’s Kitchen

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cod Fillets: Start by rinsing the cod fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture and ensures the fillets cook evenly.
2. Mix the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined to create a rich and tangy lemon butter sauce.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Place the cod fillets in the slow cooker in a single layer.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring each fillet is well-coated. The sauce will infuse the fish with flavor as it cooks.
5. Cook the Cod: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook, as cod is a delicate fish and can become dry if cooked too long.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the cod is cooked, carefully remove the fillets from the slow cooker and transfer them to a serving platter. Spoon any remaining lemon butter sauce over the top of the fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a burst of color and added freshness.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetable Addition: Add sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal. Place the vegetables under the cod fillets to ensure they cook evenly.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as dill, thyme, or basil to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute lime or orange juice and zest for a different citrusy flavor.
• Storage: Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold on a salad.

Serving Suggestions

Slow Cooker Lemon Butter Cod pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:

• Rice or Quinoa: The lemon butter sauce drizzled over a bed of rice or quinoa creates a flavorful, satisfying meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the cod alongside roasted vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich, buttery cod.