Peppery Cod Rice Bowls with Quick Cucumber Relish
Pan-seared cod lands over fluffy rice with a bright cucumber relish and a creamy lime drizzle.
Prep: 10 · Cook: 20 · Total: 30 · Serves: 4 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.8/5 (136 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
This original bowl borrows the satisfying contrast of a classic fish counter plate: crisp-edged fish, fluffy rice, and something cool and tangy on top. The cucumber relish keeps the quick skillet method feeling fresh.
Story
Theo likes a bowl that eats like a full diner plate but still leaves room for a cold drink. The pepper crust gives the cod a little roadside swagger, while cucumber relish keeps every forkful bright. Put the rice down first, then let the fish take the spotlight.
By Theo
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 4 cod fillets, about 5 ounces each
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small English cucumber, finely diced
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
Instructions
- Stir the cucumber, scallions, dill, and half the lime juice in a bowl, then season with a pinch of salt.
- Pat the cod dry and rub both sides with paprika, black pepper, and the remaining salt.
- Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and place the cod in the pan.
- Cook the cod for 4 minutes on the first side, turn carefully, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes more until it flakes easily.
- Whisk the yogurt, mayonnaise, and remaining lime juice with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth and spoonable.
- Divide the rice among bowls, top with cod and cucumber relish, and finish with the lime drizzle.
Chef Tips
- Pat the cod dry so the pepper crust sears instead of steaming.
- Use leftover rice, reheated with a splash of water, for the fastest assembly.
- Swap in haddock or pollock if that is what the fish counter has today.
- Keep the relish chunky so it stays crisp against the warm rice.
Cook's Notes
- **Fish:** Dry the cod thoroughly before seasoning.
- **Relish:** Make it while the skillet heats.
- **Rice:** Loosen leftovers with a splash of water.