Grilled Cod with Crispy Brussels Sprouts and Lemon Butter Sauce
Prep
20 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in under an hour and feels fancy enough for guests. Cod is such a lean, delicate fish that takes beautifully to grilling, and pairing it with crispy brussels sprouts creates this wonderful textural contrast. Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamin C and fiber, so you're getting real nutrition alongside something that tastes indulgent. The lemon butter sauce ties everything together with brightness and richness. Best of all, there's minimal prep work, just a quick toss and season before cooking. It's the kind of meal that makes you feel accomplished without keeping you in the kitchen all evening.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 4cod fillets(6 oz each, patted dry)
- ½ kgbrussels sprouts(halved, stems trimmed)
- 4 tbspolive oil
- 3 tbspbutter
- 2fresh lemon(juiced)
- 3garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tspsea salt
- ½ tspblack pepper
- 2 tbspfresh thyme(chopped)
- 1 tsplemon zest
- ¼ tspgarlic powder
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Place a grill basket on the grates to heat through.
Tip: Preheating ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- 2
Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, half the salt, and quarter teaspoon of black pepper. Arrange them cut-side down in the hot grill basket.
Tip: Cut-side down creates those beautiful caramelized, crispy exteriors.
- 3
Grill the Brussels sprouts for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cut sides are deep golden brown and the leaves are charred. Transfer to a serving plate.
Tip: Don't rush this step—the caramelization develops incredible flavor.
- 4
Pat the cod fillets dry and brush lightly with remaining olive oil. Season both sides with remaining salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Tip: Dry fish prevents sticking and allows for better browning.
- 5
Place the cod fillets directly on the grill grates, skin-side up. Grill for 4-5 minutes without moving them until they develop a light char.
Tip: Resist the urge to flip early—a golden crust means better flavor.
- 6
Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the flesh flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Tip: Overcooked cod becomes dry; watch the timing carefully.
- 7
While the cod finishes cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic or butter.
- 8
Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh thyme. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
Tip: Adding lemon juice off-heat preserves its bright, fresh flavor.
- 9
Arrange grilled cod and Brussels sprouts on serving plates, drizzle generously with the warm lemon butter sauce, and serve immediately.
Tip: Serve while everything is still warm for the best experience.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.
Tropical Quinoa
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.
Coconut & raspberry crush
Have you tried making a drink that's both refreshing and genuinely good for you? This coconut and raspberry crush is my go to when I want something special without the fuss. The best part is how quick it comes together in just ten minutes of prep. Coconut water is absolutely fantastic for hydration, packed with natural electrolytes that your body actually needs. I love combining it with tart raspberries and a hint of mint for that perfect balance of sweet and zingy. It's simple, it's delicious, and honestly, it feels like you're treating yourself to something fancy.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.