Seared Cod with Lentils and Steamed Spinach

Ingredients

• Cod fillet 6 oz
• Cooked lentils 3/4 cup
• Spinach 1.5 cups
• Olive oil 1.5 tbsp
• Garlic 1 clove

Method

1. Prepare Ingredients. Rinse the cod fillet under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Mince the garlic clove finely. Measure out the cooked lentils and rinse the fresh spinach leaves thoroughly.
   Tip: Drying the cod well helps achieve a nice sear.
2. Steam the Spinach. Fill a pot with about 1 inch of water and bring to a boil. Place a steamer basket or colander over the pot, add the spinach, cover with a lid, and steam for about 3-4 minutes until wilted but still bright green. Remove and set aside.
   Tip: Avoid overcooking spinach to retain nutrients and vibrant color.
3. Sauté Garlic. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
   Tip: Stir constantly to prevent garlic from burning and becoming bitter.
4. Warm Lentils. Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with garlic and stir to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
   Tip: Use low to medium heat to gently warm lentils without drying them out.
5. Sear the Cod. In a separate non-stick skillet, heat the remaining 0.5 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, place the cod fillet skin-side down (if skin is on) and cook for about 3-4 minutes without moving it, until the edges turn opaque and the bottom is golden brown. Flip carefully and cook another 2-3 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
   Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan and avoid flipping the fish too early to get a good sear.
6. Plate and Serve. Divide the lentils evenly between two plates. Place the seared cod fillet on top or beside the lentils. Add the steamed spinach alongside. Drizzle any pan juices from the cod over the fish and vegetables for extra flavor.
   Tip: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro tips

• Pat the cod dry before cooking to ensure a crispy sear.
• Use fresh garlic and cook it gently to avoid bitterness.