Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal. This tender and flaky cod is seasoned with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a delicious and light seafood dish that pairs well with just about anything.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Season both sides of the fillets with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, and paprika.
- Mix well until the ingredients are combined.
Step 4: Season the Cod
- Pour the lemon garlic mixture over the cod fillets, making sure each fillet is evenly coated.
- Use a spoon to spread the mixture over the top of the fish.
Step 5: Bake the Cod
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish the baked cod with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
- Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Cooking Time: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets. Thicker fillets may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice may have a slightly bitter taste.
- Garlic: Be sure to finely mince the garlic so it distributes evenly over the fish and doesn’t burn during baking.
Variations
- Herb Butter Cod: Replace the olive oil with melted butter and add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary for a richer flavor.
- Spicy Cod: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the lemon garlic mixture for a spicy kick.
- Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the cod before baking for a cheesy crust.
- Mediterranean Style: Add sliced cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and capers to the baking dish for a Mediterranean twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Cod Fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking to remove excess moisture.
2. How Do I Know When the Cod Is Done?
The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Can I Use Another Type of Fish?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other white fish, such as halibut, tilapia, or haddock.
4. How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- Vegetables: Serve the baked cod with steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
- Rice or Quinoa: Pair with fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the cod.
- Crusty Bread: Add a side of crusty bread to soak up the lemony garlic sauce.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a simple and healthy dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its bright, fresh flavors and tender, flaky texture, this cod recipe is sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving it with veggies, rice, or salad, this baked cod is a delicious and easy way to enjoy seafood at home. Give it a try, and savor the fresh, zesty taste of lemon and garlic with every bite!