Cod with Lemon Mascarpone Sauce

Name: Cod with Lemon Mascarpone Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cod filets; 1 cup mascarpone cheese; 2 lemons (zest and juice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Cod with Lemon Mascarpone Sauce because it brings together the delicate flavor of cod with a creamy, zesty sauce that truly excites the palate. The combination of fresh lemon and rich mascarpone creates a luxurious experience that feels both indulgent and light. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, whether I’m hosting a dinner party or just treating myself on a weeknight. Let me share with you how to create this delightful dish, step by step!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:46:13.464Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together to create such a gourmet meal. The key is making sure the cod is cooked just right – flaky but still moist. I also discovered that letting the mascarpone sit at room temperature for a bit helps it blend better with the lemon juice.

Serving the cod over a bed of sautéed spinach or alongside roasted vegetables elevates this dish even further. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that tells a story of fresh ingredients and kitchen creativity.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicate cod perfectly paired with creamy mascarpone.
Bright lemon flavor that lifts the dish beautifully.
Impressive yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

      

Understanding Cod

Using fresh cod is crucial to the success of this dish. Look for filets that are firm to the touch and have a clean, ocean-like smell. Fresh cod should have a translucent appearance and a white color. If you're using frozen cod, ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry to achieve the desired crispiness when frying. Cooking it while still wet can lead to steaming rather than searing, which prevents the formation of a nice golden crust.

Cod is a naturally mild fish, making it a perfect canvas for the zesty lemon mascarpone sauce. The fat in mascarpone enriches the dish, providing creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the flaky texture of the cod. This pairing also allows the bright lemon flavor to shine through, giving the whole dish a refreshing finish. If you prefer a stronger fish flavor, consider substituting cod with halibut or sea bass.

Perfecting the Sauce

When making the lemon mascarpone sauce, whisking in a bowl ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency, which is key for a luxurious mouthfeel. You can choose to mix it by hand or use an electric mixer for a quicker process. The zesting of lemons adds essential oils which infuse the sauce with a vibrant citrus aroma. To maximize the lemon flavor, roll the lemons on the countertop with your palm before juicing; this helps release more juice and enhances the overall brightness of your sauce.

Taste the mascarpone sauce before serving to ensure its balance. If you find the sauce too thick, whisk in a little bit of water or extra lemon juice until you reach your preferred consistency. Remember that the sauce should be warm but not boiling when served, as high heat can cause the mascarpone to separate. A gentle stir with a spatula is often enough to combine it with the residual flavors in the skillet after cooking the cod.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious cod dish:

Ingredients

4 cod filets
1 cup mascarpone cheese
2 lemons (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Make sure to have these on hand for a successful cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Cod with Lemon Mascarpone Sauce:

Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod filets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cod filets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine and Serve

Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Add the mascarpone sauce into the skillet, stirring gently to warm it through. Plate the cod and drizzle the lemon mascarpone sauce over the top.

Garnish with chopped parsley.

Enjoy this delightful dish with sides of your choice!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mascarpone sauce for a subtle kick.

Serving Suggestions

To serve the cod with lemon mascarpone sauce, accompany it with sides that complement the dish without overpowering it. Steamed vegetables or a light salad are excellent choices. Consider using asparagus or green beans, which add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the plate. Quinoa or a light pasta tossed with olive oil and fresh herbs can also elevate the meal further while soaking up the creamy sauce.

For an impressive presentation, serve the cod on a warm plate, and drizzle the sauce artistically over the top. A sprinkle of additional lemon zest or a few capers could visually enhance the dish. Don't forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley, as it adds a pop of color and freshness that ties the dish together beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cod and sauce separately. Keep the cod in an airtight container and refrigerate, where it will remain good for up to two days. The mascarpone sauce can be kept refrigerated for longer, about three to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat the cod in a skillet over low heat. This prevents it from drying out, letting it warm slowly while maintaining its texture.

Reheating the mascarpone sauce can be tricky because of its dairy content. Warm it slowly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it from separating. You can add a splash of milk or cream to help restore its silky consistency if it has thickened too much. Remember, the key is low and slow, ensuring the sauce remains smooth and creamy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw the frozen cod completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for mascarpone cheese?

You can use cream cheese mixed with a little heavy cream to mimic the texture.

→ What side dishes go well with this cod?

Sautéed spinach, roasted asparagus, or a fresh salad work beautifully as sides.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.