Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Name: Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 lb Cod fillets Cut into strips; 1 cup All-purpose flour; 2 Large eggs Beaten; 1 cup Breadcrumbs (preferably panko); 2 cloves Garlic Minced; 1 teaspoon Dried thyme; 1 teaspoon Dried parsley; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; for frying Olive oil; 1 cup Sour cream; 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Lemon zest; 1 clove Garlic Minced; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

Author: Lora

Published: February 1, 2026

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Introduction to Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce

As a passionate home cook, I know that life can get busy, and sometimes, we need a quick solution for dinner. That’s where my Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce come in! These crispy, flavorful strips not only tantalize your taste buds but also bring joy to the dinner table without much fuss. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply feeding the family, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you just want something delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce

You’ll adore these Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce for so many reasons! First, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. The crispy coating adds texture, while the creamy lemon sauce elevates the flavor. Plus, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, so you can spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce

To make these mouthwatering Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce, you’ll need a variety of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cod fillets: The star of the dish! Choose fresh or frozen cod, cut into strips for easy frying.
All-purpose flour: This creates a light coating that helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick, resulting in that perfect crunch.
Large eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binding agent, ensuring the breading clings beautifully to the fish.

Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for a super crispy exterior; it’s light and flaky, giving the cod an irresistible crunch.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the strips with an aromatic richness that’s hard to resist.
Dried thyme and parsley: These herbs bring depth and flavor. You can also use fresh herbs if you have them on hand.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors of the cod.
Olive oil: Perfect for frying, providing a nice flavor and a healthier alternative to other oils.
Sour cream: The base of our creamy lemon sauce, adding a tangy richness that pairs perfectly with the cod.

Mayonnaise: It gives a silky texture and is key for creating a rich sauce.
Lemon juice and zest: Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce, while the zest adds an aromatic punch that’s refreshing.

For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article, where you can also find a handy printable version of the recipe.

How to Make Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, let’s set the stage for success! First, gather all your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a large skillet for frying, three shallow dishes for the breading process, and a medium bowl for your sauce. Make sure your cod fillets are thawed, if frozen, and cut into strips. Mince the garlic, and zest the lemon beforehand. This little bit of prep helps everything come together smoothly, so you can enjoy the cooking experience without feeling rushed! Trust me; it makes a world of difference.

Bread the Cod Strips

Now, let’s get to the fun part—breading our delicious cod strips! Start by filling one shallow dish with all-purpose flour, and in another, beat your eggs until they’re light and frothy. In your third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Next, take one cod strip and dip it into the flour. Shake off excess flour, then plunge it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently but firmly to ensure the crumbs adhere nicely. This layering creates that crunchy exterior we all love!

Fry the Cod Strips

With our cod strips breaded and ready, it’s time to fry! Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom well, about ¼ inch deep. When the oil is hot (but not smoking!), carefully add your breaded cod strips in batches. Fry them for about 3–4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’ll make for a less crispy coating. Once done, place the fried strips on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This step is crucial—for that perfect crisp, don’t skip it!

Make the Creamy Lemon Sauce

Now to create the delightful dipping sauce that will elevate our cod strips! In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined. This creamy lemon sauce not only adds freshness but also complements the crispy cod strips beautifully. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this creamy goodness!

Serving the Dish

Presentation makes a difference, so let’s make it appealing! Arrange the crispy garlic herb cod strips on a large serving platter. You can garnish with a few lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the creamy lemon sauce in a small bowl on the side for dipping. This simple yet elegant setup speaks culinary love and looks irresistible. Your family will be impressed, and you’ll feel like a rockstar in the kitchen!

Tips for Success

Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying for that perfect crunch.

Let the cod marinate with garlic and herbs for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; around 350°F works best!
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; it keeps the strips crispy.

Serve immediately for the best texture—crispy on the outside, tender inside!

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: For frying the cod. A non-stick skillet works well if you have one.
Three Shallow Dishes: For the breading process. Pie plates can be a great alternative!

Medium Bowl: To mix the creamy lemon sauce. Any mixing bowl will do.
Paper Towels: Essential for draining excess oil from the fried strips.

Variations of Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free options like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a delightful kick!
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh dill or basil instead of thyme and parsley for a unique twist on flavor.
Lemon Dill Sauce: For a twist on the creamy lemon sauce, add fresh dill in place of the parsley, giving a refreshing taste.

Oven-Baked Option: For a lighter version, brush the breaded cod strips with olive oil and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Side Salad: A fresh mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the cod.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal roasted veggies for a colorful and nutritious addition.

White Wine: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, is a perfect match for this dish.
Lemon Wedges: Serve extra lemon wedges on the side for those who love a citrusy kick!

FAQs about Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed and pat it dry before breading to achieve that crispy texture.

What can I substitute for sour cream in the creamy lemon sauce? If you’re looking for an alternative, Greek yogurt works wonderfully and adds a nice tangy flavor!

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover cod strips in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven to keep them crispy.

Can I make the creamy lemon sauce ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What should I serve with Garlic Herb Cod Strips? These strips are delightful with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. They even shine as a tasty appetizer!

Final Thoughts

Bringing my Garlic Herb Cod Strips with Creamy Lemon Sauce to the table is always a joy. This recipe exemplifies how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary experience. Each crispy bite evokes comfort and satisfaction, reminding me of family gatherings where laughter fills the air. It’s not just about the food; it’s about creating cherished moments with those you love. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a special occasion, these cod strips transform any meal into a delightful feast. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine!