Savory Cod with Lemony Leeks, Snap Peas, and Fresh Herbs
Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team
There s something delightful about transforming a simple weeknight dinner into a culinary experience. As the sun sets and the cooking chaos begins, I often crave fresh flavors that make my taste buds sing. That s how I stumbled upon this irresistible recipe for Cod with Lemony Leeks, Snap Peas, and Herbs.
Imagine the brightness of lemon, mingling with the gentle sweetness of tender leeks and crunchy snap peas, all harmonizing beautifully with flaky cod. This dish not only brings vibrant colors to the table but also embodies a refreshing simplicity that s far from the usual fast food routine.
Perfect for impressing guests or just indulging in some self-love after a long day, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, you ll find yourself reaching for this one again and again. Let s dive into the magic of this easy and elegant dish that celebrates the joys of homemade cooking!
Why is Cod with Lemony Leeks so amazing?
Fresh, Bright Flavors: The zesty lemon and vibrant herbs invigorate the delicious cod, creating a dish that feels both gourmet and comforting.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this meal even on the busiest nights.
Nutritious Choice: Packed with veggies like leeks and snap peas, it s a wholesome alternative to takeout.
Versatile Pairing: Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal veggies or herbs, tailoring it to your family s taste.
Impressive Presentation: The colorful layers of vegetables and flaky cod make a stunning centerpiece for any dinner table.
Quick Cook Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe saves you time while delighting your palate!
Cod with Lemony Leeks Ingredients
For the Broth
- Chicken stock This forms the flavorful base for your dish, infusing the cod with savory goodness.
- Dry white wine Adds acidity and depth; feel free to substitute with extra stock for a non-alcoholic version.
- Bay leaf Enhances the broth s flavor, but remember to remove it before serving!
For the Vegetables
- Leeks Their mild sweetness blends beautifully with the cod; be sure to trim and clean well before use.
- Sugar snap peas These add a delightful crunch and a sweet pop of flavor; ensure strings are removed for easy eating.
For the Cod
- Unsalted butter Enriches the broth, lending a luscious texture; you can use olive oil as a lighter alternative if desired.
- Lemon juice This brightens the entire dish; zest some lemon too for even more citrusy goodness!
- Kosher salt Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
- Black pepper Freshly ground enhances the dish s aroma and flavor; add to taste.
- Cod fillets Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, the cod provides a flaky texture; substitute with another white fish if needed.
For Garnish
- Olive oil A splash for cooking the fish; it enhances the dish s flavor when searing.
- Fresh mixed herbs Choose from dill, chives, basil, mint, or parsley for an aromatic finish; they deliver a vibrant touch!
- Flaky sea salt (optional) For a finishing touch, this adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor.
With these ingredients, your journey to creating the perfect Cod with Lemony Leeks, Snap Peas, and Herbs is just a stir away!
How to Make Cod with Lemony Leeks
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Combine chicken stock, dry white wine, and bay leaf in a high-sided skillet, setting the stage for your flavorful broth by bringing it to a simmer over medium-low heat.
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Add leeks to the simmering broth; let them cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften just slightly, a beautiful transformation at the edge of tenderness awaits!
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Incorporate the snap peas next; allow them to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, bringing their vibrant green color to life and ensuring they re just cooked through for that delightful crunch.
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Swirl in the unsalted butter, reducing the heat to low; stir gently until the butter melts into your fragrant broth and transforms it into a luscious sauce.
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Remove from heat, and stir in the fresh lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, giving a zesty kick to your broth that harmonizes wonderfully with the leeks and peas.
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Season the cod fillets generously with freshly ground black pepper and the remaining 1 teaspoon kosher salt, making sure these flavorful touches penetrate the fish for a well-rounded taste.
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Heat olive oil in a cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat; this will be the hot pan where the magic happens, creating a crispy skin.
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Cook the fish skin side down for about 3 minutes, until the flesh starts to turn opaque and the skin is beautifully crispy; the sound of sizzling is music to your ears!
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Flip the cod fillets carefully and finish cooking for about 2 minutes, ensuring they re flaky and cooked through without overdoing it.
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Remove bay leaf from the broth mixture, drawing a warm, aromatic end to the prep of your delicious dish.
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Evenly spoon the flavorful vegetable broth along with leeks and snap peas into 4 wide bowls, making a hearty base that s truly inviting.
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Place a cod fillet on each bowl, gently resting it atop the vegetables and ladling some of the remaining broth around for an artistic touch.
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Shower with a generous amount of fresh mixed herbs and sprinkle with flaky sea salt, if desired, bringing vibrant colors and flavors to your stunning presentation.
Optional: Serve with a wedge of lemon for an extra burst of brightness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cod with Lemony Leeks, Snap Peas, and Herbs are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the broth (chicken stock, white wine, and bay leaf) and cook the leeks and snap peas up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you re ready to serve, just reheat the broth and vegetables, then cook the cod fresh for that flaky texture. If you want to save even more time, you can season the cod fillets and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days before cooking. This way, you ll enjoy a vibrant, restaurant-quality dish on busy weeknights with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Cod with Lemony Leeks
Fridge: Store any leftover Cod with Lemony Leeks in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors while keeping the fish from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked cod separately from the vegetables and broth in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep everything moist. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture of the fish.
Assembly: If you plan to have leftovers, store cod and vegetables separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Tips for the Best Cod with Lemony Leeks
Properly Clean Leeks: Make sure to thoroughly clean your leeks before cooking, as dirt can hide in between the layers. Rinse them under cold water, especially around the base.
Don t Overcook the Fish: Keep an eye on your cod while cooking; overcooking can lead to dry fish. Aim for that perfect flaky texture it s a delightful experience!
Adjust the Broth: Feel free to tweak the broth s acidity by adding more or less lemon juice based on your personal taste. This Cod with Lemony Leeks is all about balance.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Choose seasonal and fresh herbs for garnishing, as they not only enhance flavor but also brighten the dish s visual appeal.
Perfect Serving Temperature: Serve this dish immediately after plating. The colors and flavors shine bright when enjoyed fresh, making each bite memorable.
Cod with Lemony Leeks Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this dish!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a delightful twist without the dairy.
- Herb Blend: Experiment with your favorite fresh herbs such as cilantro or tarragon for a unique flavor profile.
- Veggie Medley: Add in seasonal vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for extra color and nutrients that enhance the dish.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce a warm kick that delights the senses.
- Citrus Burst: Incorporate lime or orange zest along with the lemon juice for an exciting citrusy flavor explosion.
- Pasta Base: Serve the cod and vegetables over a bed of pasta or quinoa to create a heartier meal that satisfies cravings.
- Whole Grain: Opt for brown rice or farro instead of pasta for a nutty flavor and extra health benefits.
- Choose Your Fish: If cod isn t available, use other white fish like haddock or halibut, ensuring a flaky texture with similar results.
The possibilities are endless, so have fun making this dish your own!
What to Serve with Cod with Lemony Leeks and Snap Peas?
Elevate your culinary adventure by pairing delightful side dishes that complement the fresh and vibrant flavors of your fish dish.
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Their golden, crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the tender cod, adding a satisfying bite to each mouthful.
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Garlic Butter Orzo: This creamy, buttery pasta brings a gentle richness, rounding out the meal without overshadowing the delicate fish.
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Steamed Asparagus: The bright green spears add a fresh crunch and earthy flavor, enhancing the overall experience with their vibrant color and crisp texture.
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Quinoa Salad: Packed with parsley, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon dressing, this dish brings a refreshing zing that mirrors the vibrant notes in the cod.
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Mixed Greens Salad: Drizzled with a light vinaigrette, this salad adds a refreshing, crunchy component, balancing the dish s richness while keeping things light.
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Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of chilled white wine perfectly echoes the dish s lemony essence while its crisp acidity complements the fish beautifully, making dinner feel special.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and refreshing sorbet provides a delightful, palate-cleansing finish after the flavorful main course.
Cod with Lemony Leeks, Snap Peas, and Herbs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best leeks for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting leeks, look for firm, straight stalks with vibrant green tops. The white part should be unblemished and free from dark spots. Smaller leeks tend to be sweeter and more tender, making them ideal for this dish!
What s the best way to store leftovers from my Cod with Lemony Leeks?
Store your leftover Cod with Lemony Leeks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavor and moisture. Ensure the fish is cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze the cod and vegetables?
Yes, indeed! For freezing, separate the cod from the leeks and snap peas. Place them in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To thaw, just move them to the fridge the night before. When ready to reheat, gently warm them in a skillet with a splash of broth over low heat.
What if my fish is overcooked?
Very! If you find that your cod is overcooked, there isn t much that can restore its tenderness. However, adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a spoonful of broth when reheating can help bring some moisture back. Remember, fish cooks quickly, so watch closely on the stovetop!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For allergies, ensure that no ingredients like wine or butter cause issues. For a dairy-free option, replace unsalted butter with olive oil; it s a fantastic substitute that maintains the essence of this dish. Also, substitute the fish with a plant-based protein for a vegan version if preferred.
What are some good alternatives for fresh herbs?
The more the merrier! If you re out of fresh herbs, try using dried herbs as a substitute just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use about a third of the amount. You can also experiment with herbs like tarragon or chervil to bring a unique twist to your Cod with Lemony Leeks.