Cod Burger with Citrus Sauce

Embark on a culinary voyage with the exquisite Cod Burger with Citrus Sauce, a light yet flavorsome alternative to the traditional burger.

It marries the delicate taste of the sea with a zesty and aromatic citrus twist. The star of this creation is the perfectly seared cod fillet, known for its flaky texture and subtle sweetness, which is beautifully complemented by a homemade, vibrant citrus sauce.

The sauce, a blend of orange and lemon, adds a refreshing burst that cuts through the richness, while the soft, toasted bun holds all the goodness together. Garnished with crisp lettuce and ripe avocado slices, this burger is a delightful treat for those who yearn for a burger that’s satisfying without the heaviness of red meat.

Ingredients:

For the Cod Fillets:

  • 4 cod fillets (4-6 ounces each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Citrus Sauce:

  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Toppings:

  • 4 quality burger buns, toasted
  • 4 lettuce leaves
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • Red onion rings (optional)
  • Cucumber slices (optional)

Preparation:

Preparing the Cod Fillets:

  1. Season the cod fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
  2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Once hot, add the cod fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden crust and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.

Creating the Citrus Sauce:

  1. In a bowl, combine the orange and lemon zest and juice, Dijon mustard, and honey.
  2. Gradually whisk in the olive oil until the mixture emulsifies into a bright and smooth sauce.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Burger:

  1. Spread a generous amount of the citrus sauce on the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
  2. Place a lettuce leaf on each sauced bun bottom.
  3. Set a cooked cod fillet on top of each lettuce leaf.
  4. Arrange the avocado slices and if desired, red onion rings and cucumber slices atop the cod.
  5. Drizzle a bit more citrus sauce over the toppings.
  6. Cap with the top halves of the toasted buns.

Serving:

  • Present the Cod Burger with Citrus Sauce immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm, flaky fish and cool, crisp toppings.

Time:

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Serves:

  • This recipe is perfect for 4 servings, ideal for an intimate family dinner or a small group of seafood-loving friends.

Description:

The Cod Burger with Citrus Sauce is a refreshing take on seafood burgers, boasting a light yet indulgent flair that is both nutritious and deeply satisfying. The interplay of textures and flavors—from the tender fish to the smooth avocado, the crisp lettuce, and the tangy citrus sauce—creates an experience that’s both comforting and invigorating.

It’s a testament to the versatility of burgers, proving that they can be both familiar and innovative. Whether you’re dining al fresco by the seaside or in the comfort of your home, this burger is an homage to the simplicity and purity of coastal cuisine, wrapped in a casual yet sophisticated package.