Broiled Cod with Chive Butter

Ingredients:

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced (optional, for garnish)

For the Chive Butter:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chive Butter:

• In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, chopped chives, garlic (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Stir until everything is well combined.
• Cover and refrigerate the chive butter until ready to use. You can make this ahead of time to let the flavors meld.

2. Preheat the Broiler:

• Preheat your oven’s broiler on high.
• Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler heat source.

3. Prepare the Cod:

• Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly brush it with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
• Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and brush both sides with olive oil.
• Season the fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

4. Broil the Cod:

• Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
• Broil the fish for 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The fillets should be slightly browned on top. Be sure not to overcook the fish to keep it moist and tender.

5. Add the Chive Butter:

• Remove the cod from the oven and immediately top each fillet with a generous spoonful of the prepared chive butter.
• The warmth of the fish will melt the butter, infusing it with flavor.

6. Serve:

• Serve the broiled cod fillets immediately, garnished with extra chives or lemon slices if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair the cod with steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
• Serve alongside a light salad or fluffy mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
• A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements this dish beautifully.

This Broiled Cod with Chive Butter is an easy and flavorful recipe that highlights the tender, flaky texture of cod while the chive butter adds richness and a fresh, herby taste.