Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, then this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is just what you need! This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with fresh flavors. The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and spices makes the cod so tender and flavorful that it feels like a special treat, even on busy weeknights.

Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or just need something wholesome for your own dinner table, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it comes together in about 22 minutes—perfect for those evenings when time is precious yet you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this meal even on your busiest nights.
• Flavorful Delight: The Mediterranean-style spices combined with lemon and garlic create an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the flaky fish paired with bright citrus notes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can easily marinate the fish ahead of time for quicker cooking during the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome—just what we love in a good recipe! Gather them up, and let’s get cooking!

For the Cod

• 1.5 lb Cod fillet pieces (4-6 pieces)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
• 5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Coating

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 3/4 tsp sweet Spanish paprika
• 3/4 tsp ground cumin
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Variations

This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: If cod isn’t your thing, try using other white fish like tilapia or haddock for similar results.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or zucchini around the fish before baking for added nutrition and color.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil instead of parsley to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Spice it up: For a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the garlic mixture before drizzling over the fish.

How to Make Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your cod will cook evenly and develop a nice texture when baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Sauce

In a shallow bowl, mix together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter. This sauce adds moisture and flavor to our cod while it bakes. Set aside for now; we’ll add garlic later!

Step 3: Create the Coating Mixture

In another shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour with ground coriander, sweet paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This mixture gives our fish a lovely crispy exterior while keeping it tender inside.

Step 4: Coat the Cod

Pat each piece of cod dry before dipping it into the lemon sauce first. Then coat it well in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping during cooking. Remember to save some lemon sauce for later!

Step 5: Sear the Fish

Heat some olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering (but not smoking!). Add your coated cod pieces and sear them for about two minutes on each side. This step adds beautiful color without fully cooking them—trust me; you’ll love how it enhances their flavor!

Step 6: Add Garlic to Sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together! To your reserved lemon sauce, add minced garlic and mix well. Drizzle this heavenly mixture over your seared fish; it will infuse every bite with garlicky goodness.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your skillet in the preheated oven. Bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork—about ten minutes should do it! Keep an eye on them; every oven is different. When done, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a vibrant finishing touch.

Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of this delightful Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Cooking fish can be daunting, but with a few simple tricks up your sleeve, you can create a stunning dish that’s sure to impress!

• Choose Fresh Cod: Opt for the freshest cod available; it enhances flavor and texture, making your dish more delightful.
• Don’t Rush the Searing: Searing the fish for just a couple of minutes adds depth and color. This step helps lock in moisture while creating a beautiful crust.
• Let the Fish Rest: After baking, give your cod a moment to rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to play around with spices! If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil not only elevates flavor but also complements the freshness of the lemon and garlic beautifully.

How to Serve Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Presenting your baked cod well can turn a simple meal into an elegant dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side gives diners an option to add more citrusy zing as they please.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted until tender makes for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a hint of lemon can add freshness that pairs beautifully with the cod.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are comforting and hearty, making them a great side that balances out the dish’s lightness.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a crisp texture that complements the softness of the baked cod while adding vibrant color to your plate.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal and sharing it with loved ones! Bon appétit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for a quick meal later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the baked cod to cool completely.
• Place the fish in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• Cool the baked cod thoroughly before freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped fish in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cod in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the cod on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I use frozen cod for this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic?

Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just be sure to thaw it completely before preparing the recipe. This will ensure even cooking and the best flavor.

What can I serve with Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes. You can also serve it over quinoa or rice for a complete meal.

How do I know when my baked cod is done?

Baked cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. It should look opaque throughout and reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).

Can I substitute other fish in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod works wonderfully, you can substitute with other firm white fish like haddock or tilapia. Adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavors that will impress your family and friends. The combination of lemon, garlic, and fresh parsley brings out the natural taste of the fish beautifully. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts after trying it out!