If there’s one dish that never fails to delight both your taste buds and your kitchen guests, it has to be Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. Imagine tender, flaky cod bathed in a bright, garlicky citrus embrace, all roasted together into a meal that feels celebratory and light at the same time. The best part? It’s on the table in under half an hour, and the flavors are so fresh that you’ll swear you’re dining seaside. With only a handful of wholesome ingredients and quick prep, Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is the ultimate go-to recipe for weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you crave a Mediterranean-inspired escape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this recipe shine is the simplicity and clarity of each ingredient—every item brings something special to the table, whether it’s brightness, aroma, or that signature flaky texture. Freshness is key, and these essentials ensure each bite of Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is vibrant and memorable.
- Cod fillets: The star of the dish—mild, flaky, and perfect for soaking up bold flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the cod stay juicy as it bakes.
- Fresh lemon juice: Infuses the fish with zesty acidity, brightening every bite.
- Lemon zest: Packs an extra punch of citrus perfume, right in the sauce.
- Garlic (minced): Delivers a warm, savory backbone to the marinade—don’t be shy!
- Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a beautiful golden color during baking.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the fillets and balancing the flavors.
- Black pepper: Offers a bit of mellow heat that complements the gentle cod.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For anyone who loves a gentle kick with their milder seafood.
- Chopped fresh parsley: Brings a burst of color and herby freshness as a finishing touch.
- Lemon slices for garnish: Not just for looks—these extra slices add a little more zing right before you serve.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures a quick, even bake that keeps your cod fillets tender but not overdone. While the oven heats, lightly grease your baking dish with a touch of olive oil so your cod won’t stick—and it’ll be easier to serve, too.
Step 2: Dry the Cod and Arrange
Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the marinade cling to the fish and results in a perfectly flaky finish. Lay the fillets snugly in your prepared baking dish, making sure they don’t overlap for even cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat. This mix becomes a vibrant marinade that will both flavor and tenderize your cod.
Step 4: Spoon on the Flavor
Spoon the marinade generously over the tops of each fillet, making sure every inch is nicely coated. The aroma at this point alone is enough to get everyone in the kitchen! The mix of citrus and garlic will seep into the fish as it bakes, giving Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic its punchy flavor profile.
Step 5: Bake to Tender Perfection
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or just until the fish is opaque and flakes easily when checked with a fork. The cod should stay juicy and delicate—keep a close eye, as thin fillets will cook faster.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove your cod from the oven, sprinkle with a shower of fresh parsley, and adorn with lemon slices. Serve right away while it’s hot and glistening. That finishing touch really brings out the Mediterranean spirit of Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic!
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley and a few extra lemon slices do wonders for both presentation and flavor. You might also try a pinch of flaky sea salt or a ribbon of lemon zest for even more vibrancy right before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad. Try it with herby couscous or even a light garlic mashed potato for a little comfort. Each option rounds out the meal and soaks up that tangy sauce from the cod perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Give this classic a restaurant touch by plating each fillet atop a bed of greens or serving family-style in the baking dish. For a fun twist, serve your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic over quinoa with a drizzle of pan juices, or stack it on toasted sourdough for a Mediterranean-inspired open-faced sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let the fillets cool completely before stashing them away to keep their texture just right.
Freezing
If you want to freeze extra portions, wrap the cooled baked cod tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil, and freeze for up to one month. For best flavor and texture, avoid freezing the lemon slices and fresh parsley—just add those after reheating.
Reheating
To gently reheat Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, set your oven to 325°F and warm the fillets in a covered baking dish for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Try to avoid the microwave, which can dry the fish out quickly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before starting. Removing the extra moisture is key for a flaky, flavorful result.
What type Main Course
Fresh, juicy lemons are ideal—the zest and tangy juice really come through in Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. Meyer lemons offer a slightly sweeter twist if you have them.
Is there a good substitute for parsley?
If parsley isn’t your thing, fresh dill or basil also work beautifully. They’ll add a different note of herbal brightness to the finished dish.
Can I prepare Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic in advance?
You can mix the marinade and even pat the fish dry earlier in the day, but for the freshest texture, bake just before serving. Leftovers are tasty, but nothing beats the just-out-of-the-oven fillet!
How do I know when the cod is done?
Look for an opaque, pearly white color and test with a fork—the cod should flake easily. Overbaked cod becomes dry, so start checking after 12 minutes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add more fresh, effortlessly delicious dishes to your rotation, you truly can’t go wrong with Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. It’s the kind of meal that always impresses, whether you’re keeping it cozy at home or treating friends to something special. Give it a try and see just how vibrant and easy weeknight seafood can be!
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Baked Cod 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: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. The combination of zesty lemon, pungent garlic, and fresh herbs enhances the delicate flavor of the cod, creating a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Cover the cod: Spoon the seasoning mixture over the cod fillets.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley, garnish with lemon slices, and serve.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a green salad.
- Use fresh or thawed cod fillets.
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