Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful dinner that will impress your family or guests, let me share my favorite Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic. This dish is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor from fresh ingredients. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and tender cod is truly a winner for busy weeknights or special gatherings alike. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again!

The best part? This baked cod comes together in about 22 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when you want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious dish ready in under half an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves flaky fish with zesty flavors—this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prep the fish earlier in the day and bake it right before serving. Perfect for meal planning!
• Deliciously Versatile: The Mediterranean flavors work well with various sides, making it a great option for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need to create this mouthwatering dish!

For the Fish

• 1.5 lb Cod fillet pieces (4-6 pieces)
• 5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Coating

• 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

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

Variations

This baked cod recipe is flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using tilapia or haddock instead of cod for a different flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or asparagus during baking for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat to your dish.
• Change the herbs: Substitute parsley with fresh dill or basil for a unique twist on flavor.

How to Make Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This step ensures that your fish bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Mix the Lemon Sauce

In a shallow bowl, mix together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and melted butter. Set this zesty mixture aside for now; it’s going to soak into your fish beautifully!

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

In another shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour with ground coriander, sweet paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will give your fish a nice coating while keeping it tender inside.

Step 4: Coat the Cod

Pat your cod fillets dry to help the coating stick better. Dip each piece into the lemon sauce first, then into the flour mixture. Remember to shake off any excess flour so that you get an even layer without any clumps.

Step 5: Sear the Fish

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (but not smoking). Carefully add the coated fish fillets and sear them on each side for about 2 minutes until they’re lightly browned. This step adds flavor and texture!

Step 6: Add Garlic and Bake

Now it’s time to sprinkle minced garlic into your remaining lemon sauce. Drizzle this garlicky goodness over the seared fish fillets before transferring them directly to your preheated oven.

Step 7: Bake Until Flaky

Bake in the oven until the fish flakes easily with a fork—about 10 minutes should do it! Keep an eye on them; every oven is different. Once done, remove from heat and finish off by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over everything for that lovely pop of color.

Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of this delightful Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Cooking can be such a joyful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and citrus will bring an incredible flavor to your dish. It enhances the overall taste, making the cod vibrant and aromatic.

• Don’t skip the searing: A quick sear before baking gives your cod a lovely golden crust. This step not only adds texture but also seals in moisture, ensuring the fish remains juicy.

• Check doneness early: Fish can overcook quickly, which leads to a dry texture. Start checking for doneness a couple of minutes before the recommended time to achieve perfectly tender fillets.

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley is delicious, feel free to mix in other herbs like dill or thyme for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can transform the dish and add a personal touch to your meal.

• Make it a one-pan dish: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes in the skillet before baking. They’ll absorb those lovely lemon-garlic flavors and make for an easy cleanup!

How to Serve Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Serving your baked cod beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, presentation plays a key role!

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A simple squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving brightens the flavors and adds visual appeal.
• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or dill on top not only looks fantastic but also enhances the freshness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil and herbs complements the fish perfectly while adding nutritious value.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomato, red onion, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side that balances out the richness of the cod.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside your baked cod. The smooth texture pairs wonderfully with flaky fish.

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus spears tossed with olive oil and lemon zest are both elegant and nutritious. Their crunch adds contrast to the tender fish.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic will not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the baked cod to cool down to room temperature.
• Place leftover fish 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 cod in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the cod on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave for 1-2 minutes on medium power.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use frozen cod for this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic?

Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just ensure it is fully thawed before preparing the recipe. This will help it cook evenly and maintain its texture.

What side dishes pair well with Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. The bright flavors complement lighter sides nicely!

How do I know when my baked cod is done?

Your baked cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Typically, it takes around 10-12 minutes at 400 degrees F, but keep an eye on it as cooking times may vary based on thickness.

Can I substitute other types of fish in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is fantastic, you could also try halibut or haddock. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the thickness of the fish you choose.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic as much as I do! It’s not only simple but bursting with flavor that will surely brighten your dinner table. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or impressing guests over the weekend, it’s bound to be a hit. Happy cooking!