Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, you’ve come to the right place! This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your table. It’s one of those dishes that can make a busy weeknight feel special, or it can be a hit at family gatherings. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a meal that everyone will love.

What I adore about this recipe is how it combines the fresh brightness of lemon and the aromatic charm of garlic. It’s truly comforting without being heavy, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, it cooks up in just 15 minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy evenings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavor of cod paired with zesty lemon makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, this dish is light yet satisfying.
• Flavorful Finish: The combination of garlic, lemon, and spices creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or served alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. You’ll love how easy it is to put together!

For the Cod

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

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: If cod isn’t available, try using tilapia or haddock for similar results.
• Add some heat: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick that balances beautifully with the lemon.
• Change the herbs: Swap parsley for dill or cilantro to give the dish a different flavor profile.
• Make it Mediterranean: Add sliced olives or capers before baking for an added briny touch.

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 that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Sauce

In a shallow bowl, mix together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter. This sauce will infuse your cod with moisture and flavor as it bakes. Set this aside for now; we’ll add garlic later!

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In another shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with ground coriander, sweet Spanish paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will create a lovely crust on the fish while adding extra flavor.

Step 4: Coat the Cod

Pat your cod fillets dry—this helps them sear nicely. Dip each piece into the lemon sauce first, allowing any excess to drip off before coating in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour; we want just enough to give it a nice crispness.

Step 5: Sear the Fish

In a cast iron skillet (or an oven-safe pan), heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully add your coated fish fillets and sear them for about 2 minutes on each side until they get some color but aren’t fully cooked yet.

Step 6: Add Garlic and Bake

Mix minced garlic into your reserved lemon sauce—we want all that garlicky goodness! Drizzle this mixture over your fish fillets before placing them in the oven.

Step 7: Bake Until Flaky

Place your skillet in the preheated oven and bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork—around 10 minutes should do it! Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary slightly.

Once done, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving immediately. Enjoy this delightful Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Cooking baked cod can be a breeze with the right techniques, so here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic make a significant flavor difference compared to bottled alternatives. They provide vibrant flavors that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it while it bakes. Overcooked fish becomes dry and loses its tender texture. Aim for that perfect flakiness!

• Sear the Fish First: Searing gives the cod a lovely color and adds depth to the flavor. It creates a delicious crust while keeping the inside moist—definitely worth the extra couple of minutes!

• Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spices based on your personal preference or what you have on hand. Adding a little more paprika or cumin can bring a unique twist to this classic recipe.

• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. The flavors are at their peak, and the fish retains its delightful texture when served right away.

How to Serve Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Presenting your baked cod beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or dill adds color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside makes it easy for guests to add an extra squeeze of citrus, brightening up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad combines quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta (or a vegan alternative), creating a colorful side that complements the flavors of baked cod beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus in olive oil and herbs, then roast until tender. Their earthy flavors balance perfectly with the citrus notes of the fish.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the richness of baked cod.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a crisp contrast to the meal. Drizzle them with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice for extra flavor.

By incorporating these serving suggestions into your meal, you’ll not only satisfy your taste buds but also impress your family or guests! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is fantastic for meal prep! It’s quick to make and keeps well, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lunch the next day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover cod to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cod in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions of cod tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cod in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cod on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on low power for a few minutes, being careful not to overcook.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Yes! Frozen cod works great. Just make sure to thaw it completely before preparing the dish, and adjust cooking time as needed.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even fluffy quinoa for a complete meal.

How do I know when the baked cod is done?

The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance. Usually, about 10 minutes in the oven will suffice.

Can I substitute other fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other white fish like haddock or tilapia. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may vary slightly.

Is it necessary to use fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about half a teaspoon per clove if substituting.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic as much as I do! The blend of lemon and garlic creates such a delightful flavor that elevates the tender fish. It’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself. Don’t hesitate to try this out; it’s sure to become a favorite! Happy cooking!