Pan-Seared Lemon Herb Cod with Roasted Asparagus and Garlic Parmesan Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender-crisp.

• 1 pound asparagus (trimmed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

While the asparagus is roasting, cook the orzo according to package directions in chicken broth until al dente. Drain any excess broth. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Step 3: Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).

• 1.5 pounds cod fillets (skinless)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Step 4: Sear the Cod

Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once melted, carefully place the cod fillets in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through, and flakes easily with a fork.

• 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• Seasoned cod fillets from step 3

Step 5: Make Lemon Herb Sauce

Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the juice of half a lemon and deglaze the pan. Stir in the chopped parsley and chives.

• 1/2 lemon
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh chives (chopped)

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Serve the pan-seared cod over a bed of garlic parmesan orzo. Arrange the roasted asparagus alongside. Drizzle the lemon herb sauce over the cod. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.

• Cooked garlic parmesan orzo from step 2
• Roasted asparagus from step 1
• Cooked cod from step 4
• Lemon herb sauce from step 5
• 1/2 lemon (cut into wedges - optional)