Description
Lemon Garlic Baked Cod is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner recipe featuring tender white cod fillets infused with fresh lemon juice, zest, and aromatic garlic. Baked to perfection, this dish is light yet satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed meals. With minimal cleanup and easy customization, it offers a bright, zesty option that highlights lean protein and fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Main Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each), firm and flaky
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and help the cod cook evenly.
- Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the baking dish, then drizzle with olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the top. Add salt and pepper to taste, then finish with a bit of lemon zest for extra fragrance.
- Bake the Cod: Slide the dish into the hot oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish easily flakes with a fork and appears opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking to keep the cod tender and juicy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite sides for a complete, bright, and tasty meal.
Notes
- Choose Fresh Cod: Fresh, firm fillets yield the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the fish while baking to maintain moisture and softness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon and garlic make a noticeable difference in the dish’s brightness.
- Let It Rest: Allow the baked cod to rest for a couple of minutes after baking to let flavors settle.
- Uniform Size: Use fish fillets of similar thickness to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (6 oz)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 55mg