Eating a piece of perfectly baked cod is like biting into a cloud of flavor—light, flaky, and infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This dish doesn’t just taste heavenly; it practically smells like sunshine on a plate. Imagine serving this at your next dinner party—the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your guests lining up for seconds before they even take the first bite.
Now let me tell you why this dish holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I tried making Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic; my friend insisted we host a seafood night. The anticipation was palpable as I pulled the cod from the oven—the golden crust glistening under the kitchen lights was enough to create an impromptu dance party. Naturally, everyone fell in love with it, and it has become our go-to dish for gatherings ever since.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is super simple to prepare with minimal ingredients yet bursting with flavor
- The visual appeal of the light golden cod will impress anyone at your dinner table
- Perfect for weeknight dinners but fancy enough for entertaining guests
- You can easily pair it with various sides for a complete meal experience
My friends still rave about that night! They were all asking for the recipe before they even finished their plates.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cod Fillets: Choose fresh or frozen fillets; they should be firm to the touch but tender when cooked.
- Fresh Lemons: Opt for juicy lemons; their zest adds an amazing brightness that elevates the dish.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor; minced or sliced works best depending on your preference.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the cod before baking.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley not only enhances color but also adds a subtle earthy note when sprinkled on top.
- Salt & Pepper: Season generously to enhance all those wonderful flavors in the cod.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). This ensures an evenly cooked cod that retains moisture while developing a subtle crispness.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper—this makes cleanup easier later on.
Season the Cod Fillets: Place your cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over them and season generously with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavors.
Add Garlic and Lemon Bliss: Scatter minced garlic around the fillets and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them; then zest some lemon peel on top for added brightness.
Bake Until Flaky Goodness Forms: Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork—your kitchen should smell divine by now!
Finish With Fresh Parsley: Remove from oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley atop each fillet before serving to add color and freshness.
Bonus Tip
Don’t forget—if you’re feeling adventurous, throw some cherry tomatoes or asparagus alongside your cod in the baking dish for added deliciousness!
And there you have it! Your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is ready to dazzle your taste buds! Serve immediately alongside some roasted veggies or fluffy rice for an unforgettable meal experience. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is not just simple; it’s a flavor explosion!
- The fish becomes flaky and tender, while the garlic and lemon create a deliciously aromatic experience
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare your cod fillets while the oven heats, ensuring even cooking and maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cod for another white fish like haddock or tilapia. Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Be sure to pat the cod dry before seasoning to achieve that perfect crust
- Use fresh garlic instead of powdered for a more robust flavor
- Always taste your dish as you go to adjust flavors perfectly!
Cooking this cod dish reminds me of that time I hosted my first dinner party. Everyone commented on how fresh and flavorful it was, making me feel like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
What sides pair well with Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?
Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for balance.
How can I improve the flavor of my baked cod?
Consider marinating it briefly in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before baking.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a light, flavorful dish that combines tender cod fillets with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic—perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- Cod fillets
- Fresh lemons
- Garlic cloves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Arrange cod fillets in the dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Scatter minced garlic over the fillets, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, and add lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (120g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
