Herb-Crusted Baked Cod or Lemon Garlic Shrimp?

##### Instructions:
1. Heat **butter** in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the **garlic** and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet, and cook for about **2-3 minutes** per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
3. Stir in **lemon juice**, **lemon zest**, and a pinch of **red pepper flakes** if using. Season with **salt** and **pepper**.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and garnish with **fresh parsley**.
5. Serve the lemon garlic shrimp with a side of **pasta**, **quinoa**, or a simple **green salad**.

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### **Herb-Crusted Baked Cod vs. Lemon Garlic Shrimp: A Comparison**

#### **Cooking Time**
– **Herb-Crusted Baked Cod**: Takes around **12-15 minutes** to bake, making it perfect for a low-effort, yet elegant meal.
– **Lemon Garlic Shrimp**: Cooks in just **6-8 minutes** in a skillet, which makes it the fastest option for a weeknight dinner.

#### **Flavor and Texture**
– **Herb-Crusted Baked Cod** offers a **mild flavor** with a **crispy** herb crust and a **flaky interior**. It’s an excellent choice if you love tender fish with a crunchy topping.
– **Lemon Garlic Shrimp** delivers **bright citrus** and **rich garlic butter** flavors, with a **juicy** texture. It’s perfect for those who love shrimp with a tangy kick.

#### **Nutritional Benefits**
– **Herb-Crusted Baked Cod**: A lean protein option that’s **low in calories** and **high in omega-3 fatty acids**. The breadcrumbs add a bit of extra carbs, but it’s still a healthy choice.
– **Lemon Garlic Shrimp**: A **low-calorie**, **high-protein** dish that’s packed with **vitamins and minerals**. The butter adds some fat, but it’s balanced out by the fresh lemon and garlic.

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### **Which One Should You Choose?**

Ultimately, the choice between **Herb-Crusted Baked Cod** and **Lemon Garlic Shrimp** depends on what you’re in the mood for!

– **Choose Herb-Crusted Baked Cod** if you’re craving a **lighter, flaky fish** with a fresh, herbaceous crust. It’s the perfect dish if you want something elegant and comforting, with the natural flavors of the fish shining through.

– **Choose Lemon Garlic Shrimp** if you want a **quick, juicy seafood dish** that’s **bursting with zesty, garlicky flavor**. This option is ideal for those who enjoy shrimp and want a meal that’s both satisfying and full of punchy flavors.

Both dishes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides like **vegetables**, **rice**, or **salads**. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just craving a quick seafood fix, you can’t go wrong with either choice. So why not try both and let your taste buds decide?