Crispy Cajun Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Herb Dip

Crispy Cajun Butter Cod Bites with Creamy Herb Dip

🛒 Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (cut into thick strips or chunks)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 3 garlic cloves (minced)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)

For the Creamy Herb Dip:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped)

• 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)

• 1 small garlic clove (minced or grated)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

1. Pat cod dry with paper towel.

2. Cut into thick bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Season

3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, lemon juice, garlic, and all spices.

4. Coat cod pieces evenly in the mixture. Let marinate 15–20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook

Pan Method (Best for crispy crust):
5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Cook cod 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Spoon extra butter from pan over fish while cooking.

Air Fryer Option:
8. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
9. Cook 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4: Make the Dip

10. Mix all dip ingredients in a bowl.

11. Chill for 15 minutes for best flavor.

Step 5: Serve

12. Serve hot cod bites with creamy herb dip on the side.

13. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use another fish?
Yes! Tilapia, haddock, halibut, or even salmon works well.

Q2: How do I know the cod is done?
It turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).

Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Replace butter with olive oil and use dairy-free mayo.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store in airtight container in fridge up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer for crispiness.

Q5: Can I make it less spicy?
Simply reduce Cajun seasoning and skip chili flakes.

Q6: What can I serve with it?
Rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or inside tacos.