There’s something truly special about combining cod and scallops in one dish. Both offer delicate flavors and tender textures that complement each other perfectly. This recipe highlights their natural sweetness while keeping preparation simple and approachable for any home cook.
We love how versatile this dish is. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, cod and scallops bring an elegant touch without requiring hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with protein and omega-3s, making it as nutritious as it is delicious.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through a straightforward method that lets these fresh seafood stars shine. Get ready to impress your family or guests with a meal that feels gourmet but comes together effortlessly.
Ingredients
To create a perfectly balanced Cod and Scallops recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the natural flavors of the seafood. Below is a detailed list categorized for easy preparation.
For the Cod
- 1 pound fresh cod fillets, skin removed and cut into 2-inch portions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
For the Scallops
- 12 large fresh sea scallops, patted dry
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper (for a subtle heat)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and white pepper to taste
For Garnish and Sides
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely sliced
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Steamed asparagus or roasted baby potatoes (optional side)
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| For the Cod | Cod fillets, olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, lemon zest |
| For the Scallops | Sea scallops, butter, sea salt, white pepper, lemon juice |
| For the Sauce | Butter, garlic, white wine, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, parsley |
| Garnish & Sides | Chives, lemon wedges, asparagus/roasted baby potatoes |
Using fresh and perfectly portioned ingredients ensures the delicate texture and flavors of both cod and scallops shine through in every bite.
Equipment Needed
To create our Cod and Scallops recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is crucial. This ensures even cooking and helps us highlight the delicate flavors and tender textures of the seafood. Here’s what we need:
- Non-stick skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
Ideal for searing the cod and scallops evenly without sticking.
- Fish spatula
A thin, flexible spatula designed to gently flip the delicate fillets and scallops without breaking them.
- Chef’s knife
Sharp and precise for prepping lemon zest, chopping herbs, and trimming scallops.
- Cutting board
Use a clean, stable surface for all prep work.
- Measuring spoons and cups
For accurate measuring of butter, spices, and other ingredients in the sauce and seasonings.
- Small saucepan
To prepare the rich, creamy sauce that elevates the seafood.
- Tongs
Useful for turning scallops delicately and plating the dish neatly.
- Serving platter or plates
To present our gourmet meal beautifully.
“Using the right tools allows us to cook the delicate cod and scallops with precision and care, ensuring a restaurant-quality finish at home.”
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-stick skillet | Searing cod and scallops | Heavy-bottomed preferred |
| Fish spatula | Flipping delicate seafood | Thin and flexible |
| Chef’s knife | Prepping ingredients | Sharp and durable |
| Cutting board | Ingredient preparation | Clean and stable surface |
| Measuring spoons and cups | Accurate measuring | Essential for sauces and spices |
| Small saucepan | Making sauce | Medium size for control |
| Tongs | Handling scallops | For gentle turning |
| Serving platter or plates | Final presentation | Choose elegant options |
With this equipment in hand, we can efficiently execute our Cod and Scallops recipe, ensuring every bite is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, it’s essential to properly prepare the cod, scallops, and the rich sauce that brings this Cod and Scallops recipe together. Precise prep ensures even cooking and maximizes the delicate flavors.
Preparing the Cod
- Rinse the fresh cod fillets under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture allows for better searing.
- Check for any pin bones by running your fingers gently along the flesh and use tweezers to pull them out if present.
- Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil to prevent sticking and season both sides evenly with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a touch of lemon zest for brightness.
- Set the cod aside on a plate, ready to cook.
Preparing the Scallops
- Start with large sea scallops, ideally dry-packed for the best sear—avoid wet scallops as they release too much water.
- Pat each scallop completely dry using paper towels to ensure a golden crust.
- Season scallops with a pinch of sea salt and white pepper on both sides.
- Keep scallops at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even searing.
| Prep Step | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Dry scallops | Achieve an even, golden sear |
| Season cod | Enhance natural flavors |
| Remove pin bones | Prevent unpleasant surprises when eating |
Making the Sauce
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic finely.
- In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in dry white wine and let it reduce by half to concentrate the flavor.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Whisk in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for tang and smooth texture.
- Finally, fold in chopped fresh parsley to add color and herbaceous notes.
- Keep the sauce warm, stirring occasionally, until serving.
“The sauce should be creamy, velvety, and perfectly balanced to complement the tender cod and scallops without overpowering them.”
By taking care during this prep stage, we lay the foundation for a flawless Cod and Scallops dish with rich, balanced layers of flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s bring together the delicate flavors and tender textures of cod and scallops by following these precise steps. Our goal is to achieve a perfectly cooked seafood duo that shines in every bite.
Cooking the Cod
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and allow it to warm until shimmering but not smoking.
- Gently place the seasoned cod fillets skin-side down in the skillet.
- Cook for 4 to 5 minutes without moving the fillets to develop a golden, crispy skin.
- Carefully flip the cod using a fish spatula.
- Cook the other side for 3 to 4 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod from the pan and let it rest on a warm plate while we prepare the scallops.
| Step | Action | Time | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat skillet | Immediate | Medium heat |
| 2 | Add olive oil | Immediate | Heat until shimmering |
| 3 & 4 | Cook cod skin-side down | 4-5 minutes | Do not move for crust formation |
| 5 & 6 | Flip and cook other side | 3-4 minutes | Cook until opaque and flakes |
| 7 | Rest cod | 1-2 minutes | Keep warm |
Cooking the Scallops
- Heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a clean non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the butter begins to foam, carefully arrange the scallops in the pan, avoiding overcrowding.
- Sear the scallops without moving them for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing a beautiful golden crust to form.
- Flip each scallop gently and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until firm but still tender.
- Season with sea salt, white pepper, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Remove scallops from the pan and place alongside the cod, ready to be paired with our rich sauce.
| Step | Action | Time | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Heat butter | Immediate | Medium-high heat, foaming |
| 2 | Arrange scallops | Immediate | Do not overcrowd |
| 3 | Sear first side | 2-3 minutes | Wait for golden crust |
| 4 | Flip and cook second side | 1-2 minutes | Cook until firm, tender |
| 5 | Season and add lemon juice | Immediate | Sea salt, white pepper, lemon |
| 6 | Remove and plate | Immediate | Serve immediately |
By carefully searing both cod and scallops, we highlight the fresh seafood’s natural flavors and textures. Ready to drizzle with our creamy mustard and white wine sauce, the cod and scallops promise a gourmet experience made simple at home.
Assembling the Dish
To bring together our Cod and Scallops recipe into an impressive and cohesive plate, we follow precise steps that ensure every element complements one another perfectly.
Step 1: Plate the Cod
- Place the cooked cod fillet gently onto the center of a warm plate.
- Position it skin-side up to showcase the crispy texture.
Step 2: Arrange the Scallops
- Neatly arrange the golden-seared scallops next to the cod.
- Leave slight space between each scallop to highlight their individual textures.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
- Using a small spoon, generously drizzle the creamy Dijon mustard sauce around the fish and scallops.
- Avoid covering the seafood completely to maintain the visual appeal and texture contrast.
Step 4: Garnish for Freshness and Color
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and chives over the sauce and seafood.
- Place a few lemon wedges on the side for guests to add a zesty brightness.
Step 5: Optional Side Enhancements
- If including sides like steamed asparagus or roasted baby potatoes, arrange them artfully around the seafood.
| Element | Positioning | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cod Fillet | Center, skin-side up | Showcases crisp skin and serves as centerpiece |
| Scallops | Next to cod | Highlights golden crust and delicate interior |
| Dijon Mustard Sauce | Drizzled around seafood | Adds rich, creamy flavor with subtle tang |
| Fresh Parsley & Chives | Sprinkled on top | Adds vibrant color and fresh herb aroma |
| Lemon Wedges | On the side | Provides acidity to balance the creamy sauce |
| Optional Sides | Surrounding the main plate | Completes the meal both visually and nutritionally |
“The final arrangement balances texture, flavor, and aesthetics, making each bite a harmonious celebration of sea fresh goodness.”
By following these assembling steps, we showcase the delicate flavors and elegant presentation crucial to this Cod and Scallops dish, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience.
Serving Suggestions
To complement our Cod and Scallops recipe perfectly, we recommend pairing it with sides and beverages that enhance the delicate flavors without overpowering them. Here are some thoughtful serving suggestions to elevate the dining experience:
Ideal Side Dishes
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus spears add a crisp, fresh contrast to the tender seafood. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for a simple but elegant accompaniment.
- Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, roasted baby potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic provide a hearty side that balances the lightness of the cod and scallops.
- Lemon-Butter Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf infused with lemon zest and butter enhances the citrus notes already present in our dish while adding a comforting starch element.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Preparation Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Asparagus | Fresh, crisp, mildly sweet | Light steaming, olive oil, sea salt |
| Roasted Baby Potatoes | Earthy, crispy, savory | Roasted with rosemary, garlic, olive oil |
| Lemon-Butter Rice | Citrusy, buttery, fluffy | Cooked with lemon zest, butter, parsley |
Garnishes and Finishing Touches
- Fresh Chopped Parsley or Chives: Sprinkle finely chopped herbs over the plated seafood to add a pop of green and a subtle herbaceous aroma.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and heightens the seafood’s natural sweetness.
- Microgreens: For a contemporary touch and slight peppery note, garnish with microgreens.
Beverage Pairings
Our Cod and Scallops recipe pairs beautifully with wines and beverages that are crisp and refreshing:
- Dry White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with high acidity complements the creamy sauce and seafood richness.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a non-alcoholic choice, sparkling water infused with lemon cleanses the palate between bites.
- Light-Bodied Chardonnay: A lightly oaked Chardonnay balances the buttery sauce without overwhelming the fish and scallops.
Plating Tips for an Impressive Presentation
- Use warm plates to help maintain the temperature of the seafood and sauce.
- Place the cod fillet center-stage, skin-side up for visual appeal and texture contrast.
- Arrange scallops artistically beside the cod to create balance and harmony on the plate.
- Drizzle the sauce around the seafood rather than over it, preserving the crisp textures.
- Garnish last-minute with fresh herbs and lemon wedges to maintain vibrancy.
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure that every element on the plate complements our Cod and Scallops recipe perfectly—making each bite a delight of textures, flavors, and aromas.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Cod and Scallops recipe ahead of time can streamline dinner and enhance the flavors. Here are our best make-ahead tips to ensure everything remains fresh and delicious.
1. Prep Seafood in Advance
- Rinse and dry cod fillets and scallops thoroughly.
- Place them on a parchment-lined tray, season lightly with sea salt and black pepper, then cover tightly with plastic wrap.
- Store in the coldest part of the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Avoid seasoning the seafood too early to prevent drawing out moisture which can affect texture.
2. Make the Sauce Ahead
- Prepare the white wine cream sauce according to the recipe instructions.
- Cool it quickly in an ice bath, transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 48 hours.
- Reheat gently on low heat before serving, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess and avoid separation.
3. Pre-Chop Garnishes and Sides
- Chop fresh parsley, chives, and lemon zest; store separately in airtight containers.
- Cook and cool optional sides like roasted baby potatoes or steamed asparagus, then refrigerate in sealed containers.
- Reheat just before plating to keep vibrant flavors and textures.
Table: Make-Ahead Storage Guide
| Component | Storage Method | Max Storage Time | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cod and Scallops | Seasoned and wrapped airtight | 24 hours (refrigerated) | Cook fresh. No reheating raw fish. |
| White Wine Cream Sauce | Airtight container | 48 hours (refrigerated) | Reheat gently on low heat. Stir well. |
| Garnishes | Airtight containers | 24 hours (refrigerated) | Use fresh without reheating. |
| Sides (potatoes, asparagus) | Airtight containers | 48 hours (refrigerated) | Warm in oven or stovetop. |
Tip: When searing scallops and cod after make-ahead prep, ensure your skillet is hot to get that perfect golden crust and crispy skin.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we maintain the delicate flavors and textures of both cod and scallops while simplifying our cooking process, so we can enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal stress.
Conclusion
This Cod and Scallops recipe offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. With fresh ingredients and simple techniques, we can create a dish that feels both elegant and approachable.
By paying attention to preparation and plating, we ensure every bite is balanced and visually appealing. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe helps us bring a touch of gourmet seafood to our table with confidence and ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes cod and scallops a good pairing in this recipe?
Cod and scallops have delicate flavors and tender textures that complement each other well, creating a harmonious and refined seafood dish.
What ingredients are essential for this cod and scallops recipe?
Key ingredients include fresh cod fillets, large sea scallops, olive oil, unsalted butter, sea salt, lemon, garlic, dry white wine, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs.
What equipment do I need to cook this dish perfectly?
You’ll need a non-stick skillet, fish spatula, chef’s knife, and a small saucepan to prepare the sauce and cook the seafood evenly.
How should I prepare the cod and scallops before cooking?
Rinse and dry the cod and scallops carefully, then season with salt and pepper. This ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor.
What is the best way to cook the cod fillets?
Cook cod fillets skin-side down first in a preheated non-stick skillet with olive oil until crispy, then flip to cook through until opaque.
How do I achieve a golden crust on the scallops?
Sear scallops in hot butter without overcrowding the pan, cooking each side for a couple of minutes to develop a golden-brown crust.
How is the sauce for this recipe made?
The sauce is made by sautéing garlic, reducing dry white wine, then adding heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and parsley for a rich, balanced flavor.
Can I prepare any parts of this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep and season the seafood, make the sauce up to 48 hours in advance, and pre-chop garnishes and side dishes for convenience.
What are some recommended side dishes to serve with cod and scallops?
Ideal sides include steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, and lemon-butter rice pilaf, which complement the seafood nicely.
How should I plate the dish for the best presentation?
Place the cod in the center of a warm plate, arrange scallops beside it, drizzle sauce around, and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for an elegant look.