Baked cod is a culinary delight that dances on your taste buds, with its flaky texture and subtle ocean flavor. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace like your favorite sweater. As you take that first bite, the buttery fish melts in your mouth, leaving a hint of lemon and herbs lingering like a sweet memory.
This dish isn’t just for fancy dinners; it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re gathering friends for a cozy meal or treating yourself after a long day, baked cod shines in any setting.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked cod is incredibly easy to make while delivering a burst of flavor that will wow anyone at your dinner table
- Its light and flaky texture makes it visually appealing on any plate
- You can serve it with various sides, making it versatile for any occasion
- Plus, it’s healthy, so you can enjoy it guilt-free!
I remember the first time I made baked cod; my family declared it “the best fish ever,” and I felt like a five-star chef.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for bright white fillets with no fishy smell for optimal freshness.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled won’t do this dish justice.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor and richness.
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Garlic Powder: Skip the fresh garlic here; garlic powder blends seamlessly into the seasoning mix.
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Dried Oregano: A classic herb that pairs beautifully with fish; opt for fresh if you have it!
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors—don’t skimp on these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking when we get our cod in there.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil. This prevents sticking and helps in easy cleanup later.
Season the Cod Fillets: Place the cod fillets in the dish and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper evenly over each fillet.
Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seasoned fillets. The acidity brightens the flavors and helps keep the fish moist while baking.
Bake Until Flaky: Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it!
Serve & Enjoy!: Once cooked, take out your delicious baked cod and serve immediately with your favorite sides. Enjoy every flaky bite!
Cooking baked cod is not just about following steps; it’s an experience that fills your home with comforting aromas while creating memories around the dinner table. So roll up those sleeves and let’s get cooking!
You Must Know
- Baked cod is not only delicious but also a healthy protein choice
- Pair it with fresh vegetables for a colorful meal, and the aromas will make your kitchen feel like a seaside restaurant
- The flaky texture of the fish is simply delightful
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the cod fillets, then bake them on parchment paper for 12-15 minutes. This method ensures even cooking while keeping the fish moist and flavorful.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap seasonings based on your preference; lemon and dill work wonders! Add some cherry tomatoes or olives for extra flavor and color. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises that elevate your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain its flaky texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly baked cod, ensure it’s at room temperature before cooking
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach 145°F (63°C)
- Avoid overcooking, as the fish can become dry quickly, ruining its delicate texture
Cooking baked cod always brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone raved about my “seafood masterpiece.” Their compliments still fuel my passion for perfecting this dish.
FAQ
What sides pair well with baked cod?
Fresh vegetables, rice, or a light salad complement baked cod wonderfully.
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before seasoning and baking.
How do I know when my baked cod is done?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Baked Cod
Baked cod is a quick and healthy dish that brings the taste of the ocean to your table. With its flaky texture and mild flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Paired with lemon and herbs, each bite is a delightful experience. Easy to prepare, it’s a meal that guarantees satisfaction without compromising on nutrition or taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place cod fillets in the dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper over the fillets.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
