There’s something magical about the aroma of baked cod wafting through the kitchen. Imagine tender, flaky fish, perfectly seasoned and kissed by the oven’s warm embrace. Each bite melts in your mouth, a delightful combination of buttery flavors and a hint of lemon. Trust me, this dish will have you daydreaming about the next time you get to savor it.

I remember the first time I attempted baked cod for my family. My partner raised an eyebrow, skeptical yet curious. Little did they know that this simple recipe would turn our ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece worthy of a round of applause.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Baked cod is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
  • The flavor profile is out of this world—tender fish with zesty lemon and herbs
  • Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, it looks stunning on any plate
  • It’s versatile enough to pair with rice, veggies, or even enjoy in tacos!

I’ll never forget how my family gasped in delight when they took their first bite of this dish; it was a moment of pure joy that we still talk about today.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for fillets that are firm and slightly translucent; avoid any that smell overly fishy.

  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps achieve that golden crust.

  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully—bottled just won’t cut it.

  • Garlic Cloves: Choose fresh garlic for maximum flavor; you can never go wrong with garlic!

  • Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and a fresh herbal note.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those lovely flavors.

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 step ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown top.

Prepare your baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. You can use non-stick spray if you’re feeling fancy!

Season your cod fillets: Place your fresh cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle salt, pepper, and add minced garlic on top for an aromatic kick.

Squeeze some lemon love: Generously squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets—this not only enhances flavor but also adds brightness to every bite.

Add finishing touches: Top with chopped parsley for color and flavor. Feel free to throw in some lemon slices around the fish for extra zing!

Bake and enjoy!: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Enjoy the intoxicating aroma filling your home as it cooks!

Now you’ve got yourself a delectable baked cod that’s ready to impress! Pair it with sides like roasted vegetables or fluffy rice for a complete meal.

This baked cod recipe is not only tantalizingly delicious but also straightforward enough for even novice cooks to master. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen preparing this delightful dish—it’s bound to become a family favorite!

You Must Know

  • Baked cod is a delightful dish that is light yet satisfying
  • The flaky texture combined with bright flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser
  • You’ll love how quick and easy this recipe can transform your dinner routine into something special

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and seasoning your cod fillets while it warms up. This ensures everything cooks evenly and the flavors meld beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out lemon for lime or try different herbs like dill or parsley. Customizing the toppings can elevate your baked cod to new flavor heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it remains tender and moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • When baking cod, always pat it dry before seasoning; this helps the spices stick better
  • Opt for high-quality fish; freshness really elevates the dish
  • Remember, overcooking is a common mistake—aim for 145°F internal temperature for the best results

Baking cod always reminds me of family dinners where we’d gather around the table, eagerly waiting for that first bite. I still hear my grandmother’s laughter as she’d say, “If you can’t cook fish, you’ll never get a date!”

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen cod for baking?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before seasoning and baking for even cooking.

What side dishes pair well with baked cod?

Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement baked cod perfectly and add freshness.

How do I know when my baked cod is done?

Check if it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Print

Baked Cod

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Baked cod is a simple yet elegant dish that transforms fresh fish into a mouthwatering meal. This recipe features tender cod fillets drizzled with olive oil, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic garlic, creating a delightful flavor fusion. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it pairs beautifully with rice or roasted vegetables, making it both versatile and visually appealing. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll impress your family or guests without the stress!

  • Author: Logan Reed
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Seafood

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
  3. Place the cod fillets in the dish and drizzle with olive oil.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
  5. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
  • Calories: 200
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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