We’ve always been fans of the ocean’s finest, and our cod and scallops recipe captures that magic in every bite. This elegant seafood duo combines tender, flaky cod with sweet, juicy scallops for a dish that’s both luxurious and approachable—ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Drawing from coastal traditions, we keep things simple yet flavorful, using fresh ingredients to highlight the natural tastes. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Ingredients
To craft our Cod and Scallops Recipe with its fresh, ocean-inspired flavors, we gather these high-quality ingredients. We prioritize simplicity and precision, ensuring each one enhances the dish’s natural taste and texture.
Fresh Seafood
- Cod: 2 fillets (about 6 ounces each), patted dry for optimal searing and to lock in moisture.
- Scallops: 8 large sea scallops, rinsed and dried to achieve a perfect golden crust while preserving their delicate sweetness.
Aromatics and Vegetables
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced to release their pungent aroma early in the cooking process.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped for adding a subtle base layer of flavor.
- Lemon: 1 fresh lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons) and zested (1 teaspoon) to brighten the seafood’s briny notes with acidity.
Seasonings and Pantry Staples
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, extra-virgin for high-heat cooking that complements the seafood without overpowering it.
- Fresh herbs: 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley or dill, to infuse herbal freshness at the end.
- Salt and pepper: 1 teaspoon of sea salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, freshly ground for balanced seasoning that highlights the ingredients’ purity.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Cod and Scallops Recipe to life with precision and ease, we rely on a curated set of essential tools and equipment. These items ensure that searing the seafood achieves that perfect golden crust while keeping preparation straightforward and efficient.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We organize our tools by the sequence of use in the recipe, starting with prep and moving to cooking and serving:
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp, high-quality chef’s knife for mincing garlic and chopping onions quickly and safely, allowing us to handle fresh ingredients with minimal effort.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip cutting board (preferably wood or plastic) to provide a stable surface for all prep work, preventing slips and ensuring hygiene.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring cups and spoons for precisely measuring extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings, which helps us maintain the dish’s balanced flavor profile.
- Zester or Microplane: A fine zester or microplane to grate lemon zest effortlessly, releasing its bright, aromatic oils that enhance the seafood’s natural taste.
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan: A non-stick or stainless-steel skillet (at least 12 inches in diameter) for searing the cod fillets and sea scallops to perfection, promoting even heat distribution for that desirable caramelized exterior.
- Tongs or Fish Spatula: Heat-resistant tongs or fish spatula for gently flipping and removing the delicate seafood without breaking it, ensuring tender results every time.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl for combining herbs, salt, and pepper, making it simple for us to prepare seasonings in advance.
With these tools in our kitchen arsenal, we can execute the recipe confidently, turning fresh ingredients into an elegant, ocean-inspired dish that impresses on any occasion.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to prepare our elegant Cod and Scallops dish, ensuring each stage highlights the seafood’s natural flavors and textures for a restaurant-quality result.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before cooking, we start by prepping our key components to ensure everything is ready for seamless execution. Begin with the cod fillets and scallops: pat dry two 6-ounce cod fillets and eight large sea scallops using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a perfect sear and prevents steaming.
Next, prepare the aromatics and seasonings for optimal flavor infusion. Finely chop one medium onion and two garlic cloves, then zest one lemon to yield about 1 tablespoon of zest and juice it for 2 tablespoons of fresh juice. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This preparation sets the stage for a harmonious blend that elevates the dish’s oceanic essence.
Cook the Cod and Scallops
With ingredients prepped, we move to cooking, focusing on precise searing to lock in moisture and develop a golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, then add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent to build a savory base.
Add the cod fillets first, placing them skin-side down if applicable, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F, flipping gently with heat-resistant tongs for even browning. In the same skillet, sear the scallops by arranging them in a single layer and cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until they form a caramelized crust and turn opaque, avoiding overcrowding to prevent sogginess. This step infuses the seafood with rich, smoky notes while keeping it juicy and flavorful.
Assemble and Serve
To finish, we assemble the dish with flair, plating components to showcase their vibrant colors and textures for an appealing presentation. Arrange the cooked cod fillets on serving plates, top with the seared scallops, and drizzle with the reserved lemon juice and zest mixture for a bright, tangy finish.
Sprinkle the fresh herbs over the seafood, then add a light garnish of additional chopped parsley or dill for extra aroma. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its peak, with the succulent cod and scallops delivering a delightful contrast of flaky and tender bites that evoke the ocean’s freshness.
Make-Ahead Tips
We know that life gets busy, so we’re sharing our top Make-Ahead Tips for the Cod and Scallops Recipe to help you prepare components in advance without sacrificing the dish’s fresh, ocean-inspired flavors and textures. These strategies ensure your seafood stays succulent and your meal comes together effortlessly, maintaining that perfect golden sear and vibrant taste.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
To streamline your cooking, focus on preparing non-perishable elements first:
- Chop aromatics: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve their pungent, aromatic essence, preventing any loss of flavor when you’re ready to sear the cod and scallops.
- Zest and juice citrus: Grate the lemon zest and squeeze the juice ahead of time. Transfer to separate small sealed containers and refrigerate for up to 2 days, ensuring the bright, zesty notes remain potent for enhancing the seafood’s natural sweetness.
- Mix seasonings: Combine herbs like parsley or dill with sea salt and black pepper in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day, so you can quickly sprinkle this flavorful blend over your cod and scallops for a harmonious, seaside-fresh profile.
Handling Seafood Safely
For the star ingredients—cod fillets and sea scallops—we recommend minimal advance prep to prioritize safety and quality:
- Pat and season early: Gently pat the cod fillets and scallops dry with paper towels up to 1 hour before cooking. If seasoning immediately, apply extra-virgin olive oil and a light sprinkle of salt and pepper, then cover and refrigerate. This step helps achieve that ideal crispy exterior while locking in moisture, but avoid marinating longer to prevent bacterial growth and maintain the delicate, buttery texture of the seafood.
- Storage guidelines: If you must prepare seafood in advance, store fresh cod and scallops in the refrigerator for no more than 1–2 days. Use the following table for quick reference on optimal storage times to keep your ingredients at peak freshness:
| Ingredient | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cod fillets | Up to 2 days | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place on ice in the fridge | Prevents oxidation and retains firm texture for searing |
| Sea scallops | Up to 1 day | Pat dry, then store in a single layer on a paper-lined plate in the fridge | Avoids excess moisture, ensuring a flawless golden crust |
Reheating and Assembly
- Reheat gently: If you’ve pre-cooked any elements, warm them in a skillet over low heat for 1–2 minutes per side. This revives the dish’s appealing aroma and maintains the scallops’ tender bounce and cod’s flaky layers without overcooking.
- Assemble just before serving: Combine prepped aromatics and seasonings with the seafood right before final cooking to preserve the dish’s lively colors and fresh taste, making your meal feel as if it’s straight from the coast.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Cod and Scallops Recipe to make ocean-inspired dining effortless and rewarding. It’s more than a meal—it’s a chance to elevate your home cooking with fresh flavors that impress.
Let’s encourage you to experiment and make it your own as you enjoy the satisfaction of a gourmet dish right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cod and Scallops Recipe about?
This recipe highlights fresh cod and scallops, drawing from coastal traditions for an elegant, ocean-inspired dish. It’s versatile for weeknight dinners or special occasions, focusing on simplicity and natural flavors to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
What ingredients are needed for the Cod and Scallops Recipe?
Key ingredients include two cod fillets, eight large sea scallops, minced garlic, chopped onion, fresh lemon juice and zest, extra-virgin olive oil, herbs like parsley or dill, and seasonings such as sea salt and black pepper. These enhance the seafood’s natural taste and texture for a balanced flavor.
What tools are required to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, a zester, large skillet, heat-resistant tongs or fish spatula, and a mixing bowl. These tools help with precise chopping, searing, and assembly to make the process easy and efficient.
How do I prepare the Cod and Scallops dish?
Start by patting the cod and scallops dry for a perfect sear. Prepare aromatics like garlic and onion, then season everything. Sear in a hot skillet to lock in moisture and create a golden crust. Assemble and serve immediately to showcase fresh flavors and textures.
Can I make parts of the Cod and Scallops Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, chop aromatics, zest and juice lemons, and mix seasonings in advance for convenience. Handle seafood minimally—pat and season just before cooking to maintain quality. Reheat pre-cooked elements gently and assemble right before serving to keep colors and taste vibrant.
What tips ensure the best results with this recipe?
Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Pat seafood dry before searing to achieve a golden crust. Cook over medium-high heat to lock in moisture, and balance seasonings to highlight the ocean’s natural taste. Serve immediately for the best texture and presentation.
Is the Cod and Scallops Recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s straightforward with simple steps and common ingredients. The article provides detailed instructions, so even novice cooks can succeed. Focus on basic techniques like searing, and use the recommended tools for confidence in creating an impressive dish.