If you’re seeking a delightful seafood dish that’s both quick and easy to prepare, Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is the perfect answer. This recipe showcases tender, flaky cod fillets complemented by the bright, zesty flavors of fresh lemon and aromatic garlic. Not only does it make for a satisfying dinner after a long day, but it’s also a healthy option packed with protein and low in fat. Imagine coming home to the inviting aroma of baked cod wafting through your kitchen, giving you an instant sense of comfort and warmth.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this recipe fits perfectly into busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and lemon creates a simple marinade that enhances the natural flavor of the fish. Plus, with minimal clean-up thanks to using parchment paper lining, you can enjoy more time eating and less time cleaning.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
- This dish is on the table in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s a healthy seafood choice, rich in protein and low in fat.
- The lemon and garlic combination brings a vibrant and fresh flavor to the dish.
- Minimal ingredients mean less fuss and easy preparation.
- High versatility as you can substitute cod with other white fish like haddock or tilapia.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into cooking, make sure your kitchen is ready to create this delightful baked cod. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A high-quality baking dish is essential for evenly cooking your fish, so have that ready along with some parchment paper to make clean-up easier. Gather your ingredients: cod fillets, extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic for mincing, a lemon for its juice and zest, sea salt, black pepper, paprika (optional), and fresh Italian parsley for garnish. Make sure you have a small bowl for mixing the marinade, as well as a spoon for ensuring each fillet is evenly coated.
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for a stress-free clean-up process.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, and optional paprika. This marinade is what infuses the cod with its incredible flavor, so mix it well to ensure all elements are combined evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cod
Take your cod fillets and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures they sear well while cooking. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and pour the lemon garlic marinade over them. Make sure they are well coated for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Baking the Cod
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let the cod bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it; it’s done when the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This quick cooking time ensures that the cod remains moist and tender.
Step 5: Garnishing
Once cooked, remove the cod from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped Italian parsley on top and add lemon slices for garnish. The parsley enhances the dish’s presentation and provides a fresh garnish that balances the acidic notes from the lemon.
Variations
- Protein: Feel free to substitute cod with other white fish such as haddock, halibut, or tilapia for a different texture and flavor.
- Vegetables: Serve the cod alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add more nutrition and flavor to your meal.
- Spices: Customize the marinades by adding spices like crushed red pepper for heat or dill for an herby taste.
Cooking Notes
- Do not overcook the cod to keep it moist and flaky.
- Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the best flavor experience.
- Optional: Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end to achieve a golden-brown top.
- Pair with quinoa or rice for a more filling meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a healthy, well-rounded meal.
- A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the cod perfectly.
Tips
- Always check the freshness of your cod; the fresher the fish, the tastier the dish.
- Prepare your marinade ahead of time to save minutes when you are ready to cook.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to discover your favorite flavor profiles.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving
- Protein: About 26g
- Sodium: Roughly 500mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen cod, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure the marinade adheres.
What should I serve with baked cod?
Pair baked cod with vegetables like asparagus, a salad, or a light pasta dish for a complete meal.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I add cheese to the dish?
While cheese is not traditional in this recipe, a sprinkle of Parmesan or a light cheese topping before broiling can add a delicious twist.
Conclusion
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together fresh flavors in a delightful way. The simplicity of this recipe makes it a staple for anyone looking to incorporate more healthy seafood into their diet without spending hours in the kitchen. With an easy preparation process, you’re just a few ingredients away from a delicious dinner that the whole family will love. We encourage you to give it a try and experiment with your own variations. Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t hesitate to pass this recipe along to fellow seafood enthusiasts!
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Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Delightful seafood dish that’s both quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
-
Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for a stress-free clean-up process.
-
Create the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, sea salt, black pepper, and optional paprika. This marinade is what infuses the cod with its incredible flavor, so mix it well to ensure all elements are combined evenly.
-
Prepare the Cod
Take your cod fillets and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. This step ensures they sear well while cooking. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and pour the lemon garlic marinade over them. Make sure they are well coated for maximum flavor.
-
Baking the Cod
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let the cod bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on it; it’s done when the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This quick cooking time ensures that the cod remains moist and tender.
-
Garnishing
Once cooked, remove the cod from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped Italian parsley on top and add lemon slices for garnish. The parsley enhances the dish’s presentation and provides a fresh garnish that balances the acidic notes from the lemon.
Notes
Do not overcook the cod to keep it moist and flaky. Use fresh lemon juice and garlic for the best flavor experience. Optional: Broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end to achieve a golden-brown top. Pair with quinoa or rice for a more filling meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving
- Sodium: Roughly 500 mg
- Protein: About 26 g