Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, you’ve come to the right place! This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors. It’s one of those go-to meals that feels special yet can be whipped up in just 15 minutes. I love serving this dish on busy weeknights or at family gatherings, as it pleases everyone at the table.

The crispy exterior paired with tender fish and zesty lemon makes it a standout. Plus, the delightful aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” Trust me; this recipe will soon become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about 22 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic nights.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild flavor and appealing presentation, even picky eaters will enjoy this dish.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, baked cod is a nutritious choice for anyone looking to eat well.
• Make Ahead: The lemon sauce can be prepared earlier in the day, saving you time when it’s time to cook.
• Versatile Flavor: The Mediterranean spices elevate the dish without overwhelming it, making it suitable for any palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make this dish shine! You probably already have many of these items in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cod

• 1.5 lb Cod fillet pieces (4-6 pieces)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 3/4 tsp sweet Spanish paprika
• 3/4 tsp ground cumin
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients to suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: If cod isn’t your favorite, try using haddock or tilapia instead. Both options work wonderfully!
• Add some veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or asparagus before baking for a complete meal loaded with color.
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mix!
• Change the herbs: Fresh dill or basil can be substituted for parsley if you’re looking for a different herbal note.

How to Make Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your cod cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color we all love.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Sauce

In a shallow bowl, mix together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and melted butter. This sauce is where much of the flavor comes from, so make sure it’s well combined before moving on!

Step 3: Prepare Your Seasoning

In another shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour, ground coriander, sweet Spanish paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your fish a nice crust while adding flavor.

Step 4: Coat the Cod

Pat your cod fillets dry—this helps them sear nicely later. Dip each piece into the lemon sauce first and then into the flour mixture. Don’t forget to shake off any excess flour; we want a light coating here!

Step 5: Sear the Fish

In a cast iron skillet (or any oven-safe pan), heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the coated fish fillets and sear them for about two minutes on each side until they’re lightly golden but not fully cooked through.

Step 6: Add Garlic Goodness

Now it’s time to enhance that lemon sauce! Stir in minced garlic into the remaining sauce and drizzle it generously over your cod fillets before placing them in the oven.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. Bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork—about 10 minutes should do it! Keep an eye on them as ovens can vary slightly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley for that final touch. Serve immediately with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal!

And there you have it—a delightful Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Cooking baked cod can be a delightful experience, especially when you incorporate these handy tips to make your dish even better!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cod and freshly squeezed lemon juice will enhance the flavors significantly compared to frozen or bottled options. Fresh ingredients bring vibrant taste and aroma to your dish.
• Don’t overcook the fish: Cod cooks quickly, and overcooking can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time and start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
• Let the fish sit before serving: Allowing the cod to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. This small step ensures a moist and delicious final dish.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like dill or thyme for an added layer of flavor. Each herb brings its unique taste profile, allowing you to customize the dish according to your preferences.
• Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked fish, aim for an internal temperature of 145 degrees F. This guarantees that your cod is cooked through but still flaky and moist.

How to Serve Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Presenting your baked cod beautifully can elevate your dining experience! Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness with its bright flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra burst of citrus flavor as they desire.
• Capers: A few capers scattered on top add a salty punch that complements the cod beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted with olive oil makes for a colorful and nutritious side that pairs well with the lightness of cod.
• Quinoa Salad: Lightly seasoned quinoa mixed with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion provides a wholesome complement to your baked cod while adding texture.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort alongside your fish, balancing out flavors nicely.
• Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus lightly steamed creates a crunchy contrast that’s not only healthy but also visually appealing on the plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to impress at your next meal! Enjoy your delicious baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic—it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the baked cod to cool completely before storing.
• Place the fillets in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped fillets in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Place the cod on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use other types of fish for this baked cod recipe?

Yes! While this recipe highlights cod, you can substitute other firm white fish like haddock or tilapia. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

How can I enhance the flavor of the Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic?

Feel free to add herbs like dill or thyme for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different spices or toppings such as cherry tomatoes or olives before baking.

Is this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings flavors of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations with me!