Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the delicate, flaky texture of cod fillets. This recipe combines fresh lemon juice, garlic, and butter, creating a bright and savory sauce that enhances the mild taste of the fish. With minimal prep and a quick baking time, this dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying experience.
Ingredients
- For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over the fillets.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika evenly over the fish.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and place lemon slices on top for extra brightness.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
- Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- The fish should be opaque and flaky when tested with a fork.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the cod from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with roasted vegetables, rice, or a side salad.
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. You can find more details here and here. Let me know if you’d like variations or additional tips! 😊