Description
A quick, healthy, and flavorful baked cod recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. Tender, flaky cod fillets are seasoned with fresh herbs, lemon, garlic, and olive oil, then baked to perfection with minimal cleanup. This versatile dish supports a balanced diet and can be adapted with various spices and toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or dill), chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (for subtle heat)
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs mixed with fresh herbs (for herb-crusted topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or garlic butter for drizzling
- Grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese, as desired
- Cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and capers (for Mediterranean style variation)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Brush each fillet evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle salt, freshly ground pepper, minced garlic, lemon zest, and chopped fresh herbs over the fillets. Add optional spices like paprika or chili flakes if desired.
- Bake the Cod: Place the seasoned fillets in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Add Finishing Touches: Once out of the oven, drizzle the baked cod with fresh lemon juice. For extra richness, add a pat of melted butter or garlic butter if using. Sprinkle additional fresh herbs or a small amount of grated cheese if desired before serving.
Notes
- Choose fresh or properly thawed cod for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook; check for doneness around 12 minutes to avoid dry fish.
- Pat fillets dry before baking to help seasonings adhere and reduce steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Combine herbs, lemon zest, and lemon juice for a bright, well-balanced flavor profile.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freeze baked cod in airtight containers for up to 1 month, but fresh is best.
- Reheat gently in a low-temperature oven to preserve moisture; avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (6 oz)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg