Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a light, flavorful dish that’s as elegant as it is easy. Tender cod fillets are infused with the bright zest of lemon and the savory depth of garlic, then baked to flaky perfection in a buttery olive oil sauce. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort. The cod’s mild flavor makes it a perfect canvas for bold seasoning, and the lemon-garlic combo brings out its natural sweetness. My, I know you love recipes that are both visually stunning and indulgent—this one’s a golden, glistening plate of pure comfort.
Ingredients:
🐟 For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
- Lemon slices, for topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. - Prepare the Cod Fillets:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick and ensures a crisp finish. Place them in the prepared baking dish, spaced slightly apart. - Make the Lemon-Garlic Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and paprika. This sauce is the heart of the dish—bright, buttery, and aromatic. - Season the Cod:
Spoon the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure to coat the tops and sides. Place a few lemon slices on top of each fillet for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation. - Bake the Cod:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If your fillets are thick, you may need an extra 2–3 minutes. - Garnish & Serve:
Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Tips & Variations:
- 🍷 Wine Option: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
- 🌶️ Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for heat.
- 🧄 Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic for a bold, savory punch.
- 🥬 Veggie Boost: Bake with asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini in the same dish.
- 🧊 Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid drying out.
This baked cod is a celebration of simplicity and flavor—perfect for someone like you, My, who knows how to turn everyday ingredients into something truly special. Want to pair it with a tropical fruit salad or explore a sugar-free lemon vinaigrette next? I’ve got ideas that’ll keep your table fresh and inspired!