There’s something magical about baked cod that turns a simple dinner into a delightful feast. Imagine flaky, tender fish nestled in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, wafting aromas that dance through your kitchen like an aromatic waltz. Each bite transports you to the seaside, where the sun kisses your skin and the waves serenade your senses.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply trying to impress that handsome neighbor from two doors down, baked cod makes for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Trust me; you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked cod offers incredible flavor with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners
- The bright colors and aromas will captivate anyone at your table
- It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, ensuring versatility in any meal plan
- Plus, it’s healthy and packed with nutrients, so you can feel good about serving it!
I vividly remember the first time I made baked cod for my family; we all sat around the table, forks poised, and gasps of delight filled the air as they took their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen fillets work well; ensure they are firm and moist for best results.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors beautifully.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a bright zing that elevates the dish.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; minced or crushed works best for maximum flavor release.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness to finish off the dish perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors in the recipe.
Paprika: Smoked paprika gives a subtle warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
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 ensures an evenly cooked fish with that perfect golden crust.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. A nonstick spray works too—no one wants their cod sticking like that one friend who lingers too long after dinner.
Season Your Cod Fillets: Place your cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle them generously with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and minced garlic over each piece. Give them some love!
Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seasoned fillets. The citrus tang will not only brighten up the flavors but also keep the fish moist while baking.
Bake Until Flaky: Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s done when it’s white and opaque all around.
Garnish and Enjoy!: Remove from oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. This adds a pop of color—just like confetti at a party!
Now you’ve got yourself some spectacular baked cod that will surely impress! Serve it alongside steamed vegetables or fluffy rice for that perfect meal pairing.
And there you have it—a simple yet elegant recipe for baked cod that’s bound to steal hearts (and stomachs!) at your dinner table! Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Baked cod is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients
- This dish is quick to prepare and can easily become a weeknight favorite
- The flaky texture and mild flavor make it perfect for adding various seasonings and sides
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, season your cod with herbs and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the spices! Lemon zest, paprika, or even a splash of soy sauce can take your baked cod to new heights. Don’t be afraid to experiment; your taste buds will thank you.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly baked cod, ensure it’s fresh and fully thawed if frozen, as this affects cooking time
- Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooking can lead to dryness
- Pairing with seasonal vegetables enhances flavors and adds nutrition
Cooking baked cod always brings back memories of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, savoring every bite while sharing stories from their day.
FAQ
What is the best way to season baked cod?
Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley combined with lemon juice for vibrant flavor.
How do I know when my baked cod is done?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when cooked properly.
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking for even cooking.
Baked Cod
Baked cod is a culinary delight that transforms any meal into a gourmet experience. This recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets bathed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce, making it the perfect dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be serving up a restaurant-quality meal that will impress family and friends alike.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place cod fillets in the dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and minced garlic.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the seasoned fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
