Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is like a warm hug from the ocean. The flaky fish melts in your mouth while the bright citrus and aromatic garlic elevate it to culinary heaven. Imagine hosting a dinner where guests are awestruck by both the aroma wafting from your kitchen and your masterful cooking skills.
Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, you’ve just returned home from a long day at work, and you want something that feels decadent without taking hours. This dish is your knight in shining armor—quick to prepare, delightful to eat, and so simple even your cat could probably pull it off if it had thumbs.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy baked cod recipe combines fresh flavors with minimal effort
- Perfectly flaky fish paired with zesty lemon creates a delightful taste explosion
- Visually stunning and healthy, it’s a meal everyone will love
- Versatile enough for weekdays or special occasions alike
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were skeptical about fish being “fancy.” But when they took their first bites, I swear I saw tears of joy!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for firm fillets with a clean scent; they’ll ensure the best flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best; it adds that vibrant zing we all crave.
- Garlic Cloves: Use fresh cloves for maximum flavor; they’re the heart of this dish.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances richness; opt for extra virgin for its fruity notes.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking right from the start.
Prep Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray. This keeps the cod from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Season Your Cod Fillets: Place your fresh cod fillets in the dish. Drizzle them generously with olive oil, followed by salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy; they need love!
Add Lemon and Garlic Magic: Mince your garlic cloves finely and sprinkle them over the fish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice atop everything—this is where the magic happens!
Bake It Up!: Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the cod flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s done when it’s opaque!
Garnish & Serve!: Once out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color. Serve hot alongside roasted vegetables or a salad—it’s pure perfection!
Now go ahead—try this delightful Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic recipe! You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so darn delicious!
You Must Know
- Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is not just a meal; it’s an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering scents
- The flaky texture of the cod paired with zesty lemon makes for a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, season the cod fillets with salt and pepper, then arrange them in a baking dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish, followed by minced garlic and herbs, then bake for 12-15 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley for added flavor. Consider topping the cod with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil for a crispy finish or swap out lemon for lime to switch things up.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays tender and juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When selecting your cod, opt for fillets that are firm and glistening; freshness matters!
- Always taste your seasoning before baking to ensure it’s well-balanced
- Lastly, don’t rush the cooking time; perfect fish is all about patience!
Cooking this recipe reminds me of the first dinner I made for my partner. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bite, sealing my fate as “the cook” of our relationship.
FAQ
What sides pair well with Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?
Roasted vegetables or a light salad complement this flavorful fish perfectly.
Can I use frozen cod instead of fresh?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
How do I know when the cod is done cooking?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a quick, healthy dish featuring flaky cod infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. Perfect for impressing family and friends any night of the week!
Ingredients
- Fresh cod fillets
- Fresh lemon juice
- Garlic cloves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Arrange cod fillets in the dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Mince garlic and sprinkle over the fish; squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
