Let me tell you right upfront: this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is the kind of dish you’ll find yourself craving on a random Tuesday, and then again for a cozy weekend dinner. It’s so elegant with those flaky cod fillets, a bright squeeze of lemon, and a gentle kiss of garlic—yet it’s so quick and easy, you’ll hardly believe it. If you’re looking for a healthy, swoon-worthy meal that comes together with almost no fuss, this is your answer. Let’s dive in and make dinner something truly special!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a beautiful Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic. Each item is carefully chosen to highlight the flavor and freshness of cod, making the whole dish pop with color and taste.
- Cod fillets: Fresh (or well-thawed) cod gives you that tender, mild base that lets all the bright flavors shine.
- Lemon: Both slices and fresh juice add vibrant color and a lively, zesty punch.
- Garlic cloves: Minced garlic infuses every bite with warmth and depth, never overpowering but always present.
- Olive oil: A drizzle coats the fish, keeping everything succulent, and helps carry those aromatics to every forkful.
- Fresh parsley: Gives a final burst of freshness and a touch of green that looks stunning scattered over the finished fish.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: These kitchen staples make all the other flavors sing—don’t be shy!
- Optional: Paprika or red pepper flakes: For a little color or kick, a sprinkle just before baking can be a game changer.
How to Make Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms, lightly grease a baking dish just roomy enough to fit your cod fillets snugly. You want the fillets to rest close together so the flavors can meld without crowding.
Step 2: Layer the Flavors
Arrange the cod fillets in your prepared dish in a single layer. Squeeze fresh lemon juice all over the fish, then sprinkle the minced garlic evenly across each fillet. Drizzle with olive oil, and season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. If you adore a little heat or a flash of color, this is also the time to dust on some paprika or red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Add Lemon Slices
Top each cod fillet with a thin slice or two of lemon. The lemon bakes into the fish, subtly infusing each bite with citrusy brightness and making for a beautiful finished presentation.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your cod. The fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque. Keep a close eye—there’s nothing sadder than overcooked cod, which can go from luscious and tender to dry in a flash.
Step 5: Finish with Herbs
As soon as it emerges from the oven, shower the Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic generously with freshly chopped parsley. The heat from the fish releases the parsley’s aroma, making the whole kitchen smell like a chef’s garden.
How to Serve Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic
Garnishes
A handful of fresh parsley works every time, but try adding extra lemon wedges on the side for those who like a blast of fresh citrus. A delicate swirl of good olive oil over the top or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate each plate even more.
Side Dishes
I absolutely love this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic served over a bed of fluffy rice, garlicky mashed potatoes, or even buttery couscous. For veggies, go with simply roasted asparagus, green beans, or a light tossed salad to keep things fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling extra festive, serve the cod atop a colorful mix of roasted Mediterranean vegetables or flake it over warm, crusty bread for a rustic, elegant twist. For a dinner party, plate individual portions with an artful smear of herbed yogurt or a few microgreens for that chef-y touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover portions of Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Make sure to let the fish cool completely before sealing it up—that way, it stays fresh and moist.
Freezing
While cod can technically be frozen after baking, the texture might suffer a bit. If you want to freeze it, let the fish cool, then wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and tuck into a freezer-safe bag. Use within a month for best results, and know that the lemony punch may be softer after thawing.
Reheating
For gentle reheating, warm your cod gently in a low oven (about 275°F) covered loosely with foil. This keeps the fish from drying out. A brief zap in the microwave works too, but go in short intervals so the cod stays tender and doesn’t turn rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the cod in the refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels before baking. This helps achieve the best texture and allows the flavors in the Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic to really penetrate the fish.
Is this recipe healthy?
It sure is! Cod is low in fat, high in protein, and baking instead of frying keeps things light. The olive oil and fresh lemon contribute healthy fats and antioxidants, making this a meal you can feel great about serving any night of the week.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
No worries. You can use other fresh herbs like dill or chives for a different but equally delicious finish. In a pinch, a sprinkle of dried Italian seasoning right before serving works just fine.
Can I make this with another kind of fish?
Definitely! The Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic pairs beautifully with haddock, tilapia, or any firm white fish. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets you choose.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
You’re looking for the cod to turn opaque and to flake easily with a fork. If you have a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. Resist the urge to leave it in “just another minute” since cod cooks quickly!
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal that always impresses, the Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is one you’ll return to time and time again. I hope you give it a try and discover just how dazzling, simple, and delicious baked cod can truly be!
Print
Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
An elegant yet effortless dish featuring flaky baked cod fillets infused with garlic, fresh lemon, and a sprinkle of herbs. This light, healthy meal is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (juice and thinly sliced)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the fillets in a single layer.
- Place cod fillets in the dish. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika/red pepper flakes if using.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the fillets and top each with 1–2 thin lemon slices.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- For a different twist, substitute parsley with fresh dill or chives.
- Pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
- Can also be made with haddock, tilapia, or other firm white fish—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
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