If you’re a seafood lover or simply someone looking for a fresh, healthy dinner option, this baked cod recipe is calling your name. With the perfect balance of bright lemon and savory garlic, this dish is a burst of flavors that’s light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, meaning you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in under 30 minutes. Ready to dive in?
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This baked cod with lemon and garlic is a dream for anyone seeking a nutritious, flavorful meal with minimal prep. It’s a perfect combination of fresh citrusy lemon, aromatic garlic, and warm spices like paprika and thyme. These simple ingredients come together to enhance the delicate flavor of the cod, making it juicy and tender every time. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served with your favorite sides, whether it’s a bed of fluffy rice, steamed veggies, or a crisp salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Prepare the Garlic Lemon Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your cod fillets a vibrant and rich flavor.
- Coat the Cod: Place the cod fillets in your prepared baking dish. Pour the garlic-lemon mixture over the fish, making sure every fillet is generously coated. This step ensures that each bite of cod will be packed with flavor.
- Bake: Pop the cod into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cod is baked to perfection, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side. The parsley adds a fresh, bright touch, and the lemon wedges give each bite a little extra zing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Cod:
- Don’t Skip the Zest: Lemon zest adds a more concentrated citrus flavor compared to lemon juice, making it key to this dish’s fresh and zesty taste.
- Add Vegetables for a Complete Meal: For an effortless, one-pan dinner, toss in thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to bake alongside the cod.
- Check the Temperature: Cod is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). For the best texture, remove it from the oven as soon as it’s done.
Serving Suggestions:
This baked cod pairs beautifully with almost any side dish. You can keep it light with a simple salad or steamed green beans, or make it more filling with some rice or roasted potatoes. For extra flavor, drizzle a little extra garlic-lemon mixture over your side dishes.
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just want to shake up your usual dinner routine, this baked cod is a winner. It’s light yet flavorful, elegant yet easy to make, and best of all, it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at the table. So, the real question is: would you eat this baked cod with lemon and garlic? Let us know!