Seeking a flavorful, low-carb meal that’s perfect for your keto diet? Look no further than our Keto Cod with Lemon Caper Butter Zucchini! This dish offers a delightful mix of tender cod fillets, a buttery lemon caper sauce, and fresh zucchini—all combining to create a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Wooden spatula
- Zester
- Juicer
- Knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Keto Cod with Lemon Caper Butter Zucchini – Step By Step
Step 1 – Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. Ensuring the fish is dry helps it sear nicely. Meanwhile, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2 – Cook the Cod: Add the cod fillets to the skillet. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes or until the cod becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3 – Prepare the Zucchini: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and reduce the heat to medium. Add sliced zucchini, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 3 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 4 – Make the Lemon Caper Butter: Add butter to the skillet along with the minced garlic. Once the butter melts, stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5 – Combine and Serve: Return the cooked cod to the skillet and gently coat with the lemon caper butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm alongside the sautéed zucchini.
How to Serve Keto Cod with Lemon Caper Butter Zucchini
This dish is perfect on its own but can be elevated by adding a simple side salad or steamed asparagus. Serve immediately after preparing to enjoy the full flavors at their freshest.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
- Ensure the cod is fully thawed and patted dry to get that perfect sear.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil for added flavor.
- To add a spicy twist, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the lemon caper sauce.
High Protein Version: Boost the Nutrition!
If you’re looking to up your protein intake while savoring this keto dish, consider adding a tablespoon of hemp seeds to the lemon caper butter. Not only do they blend seamlessly, but they also add a subtle, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
For a more substantial protein boost, serve the cod over a bed of quinoa or lentils, ensuring you maintain the balance of keto-friendly nutrients while packing in more protein punch.
Lower Your Carb Counts: Infuse More Flavor!
Want to reduce the carbs even further while keeping that exceptional taste? Replace zucchinis with spiralized zucchini noodles or zoodles. They offer the same delightful crunch without the extra carbs.
To enhance flavor while keeping it low-carb, added vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can create a medley of textures that satisfy without compromising keto principles.
Storage Instructions
For optimal freshness, store leftover Keto Cod with Lemon Caper Butter Zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the delicate texture of the fish and sauce.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen cod fillets? Yes, just ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- What can I substitute for cod? Halibut or tilapia are excellent alternatives with similar textures.
- Is this sauce suitable for other proteins? Absolutely! It pairs wonderfully with chicken or seared tofu.
- Can I omit the capers? While capers add a unique flavor, you can replace them with chopped green olives.