When it comes to preparing an easy yet flavorful seafood dish, few recipes are as perfect as baked cod with lemon and garlic. This dish combines light, flaky cod fillets with the zesty brightness of lemon and the rich aroma of garlic. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to add more healthy recipes to your repertoire, this baked cod recipe is sure to please. Packed with Mediterranean flavors, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests.
In this article, you’ll find the full recipe, step-by-step directions, FAQs to help guide your cooking, and tips for making this dish even better!
Ingredients and Quantities
Before we dive into the recipe’s step-by-step instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients and their specific quantities. This recipe yields 4 servings.
Main Ingredients:
- Cod Fillets – 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets, either fresh or thawed from frozen. Cod is a mild, white fish that pairs beautifully with lemon and garlic. Make sure the fillets are evenly sized to ensure uniform cooking.
For the Lemon Garlic Marinade:
- Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. This adds a fruity and robust flavor while helping the fish stay moist during baking.
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced. Garlic is one of the stars of this dish, providing deep flavor.
- Lemon Zest – From 1 lemon. This adds a concentrated burst of citrus without the acidity.
- Lemon Juice – From 1 lemon (approximately 2-3 tablespoons). Lemon juice helps tenderize the fish and adds brightness to the dish.
- Dried Oregano – 1 teaspoon. This herb complements the lemon and garlic, bringing an earthy and aromatic touch to the fish.
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon. Paprika adds a hint of sweetness and a lovely color to the baked cod.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste. Season the fish to your preference.
For Garnish:
- Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped. Parsley not only adds freshness but also a pop of color to the final dish.
- Lemon Wedges – For serving. These are optional but can be served alongside for additional lemon flavor if desired.
Directions and Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
The first step is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is essential for even cooking. While the oven is heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the cod from sticking to the dish as it bakes.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
While the oven heats, focus on preparing the marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This flavorful marinade will coat the cod, imparting a zesty, garlicky taste.
Step 3: Arrange the Cod Fillets
Place the 4 cod fillets in the greased baking dish. Make sure they are in a single layer, allowing even cooking. Pour the prepared lemon garlic marinade evenly over the fillets, using a spoon to ensure each fillet is well coated. For even better flavor, you can flip the fillets once to coat both sides with the marinade.
Step 4: Bake the Cod
Now it’s time to bake the fish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the cod for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know the fish is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two, while thinner ones may cook faster. Keep an eye on the fish to avoid overcooking it, as cod can dry out if baked for too long.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the cod is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant, fresh garnish. Serve the cod with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is extremely versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to complement your baked cod:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make great sides, adding both nutrition and color to your plate.
- Rice: A light, fluffy rice pilaf or steamed jasmine rice will soak up the lemony sauce from the fish beautifully.
- Quinoa: For a more health-conscious option, quinoa offers a hearty and nutritious base that pairs well with fish.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect accompaniment, balancing the richness of the fish with some crunch and acidity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets for this recipe, but make sure they are fully thawed before baking. To thaw frozen cod, leave it in the fridge overnight or place the sealed fish in a bowl of cold water for about an hour. Thawing the fish ensures even cooking.
2. Can I substitute cod with another type of fish?
Absolutely! While cod is the preferred fish for this recipe due to its mild flavor and flaky texture, other white fish like halibut, haddock, or tilapia can be used as alternatives. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and type of fish.
3. How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
Cod is done cooking when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure the fish is fully cooked and safe to eat. If the fish still looks translucent or is difficult to flake, it needs a bit more time in the oven.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to cook, simply coat the fillets with the marinade and bake as directed.
5. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Yes! Cod is a lean source of protein, and the olive oil, garlic, and lemon marinade fits perfectly into low-carb or keto meal plans. Just pair the fish with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice or a green salad for a satisfying, low-carb meal.
6. Can I grill instead of bake the cod?
Yes, you can grill the cod if you prefer. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and grill the fillets for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Be sure to brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
7. What can I do if I don’t have lemon on hand?
If you don’t have lemon, you can substitute with lime for a different citrus flavor, or even a splash of white wine or vinegar to give the dish the acidity it needs.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Cod
- Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh cod fillets and freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Do Not Overcook: Cod can dry out if cooked too long. Watch the cooking time closely, especially with thinner fillets.
- Marinate in Advance: For even more flavor, marinate the cod for 30 minutes before baking. This will allow the fish to absorb more of the lemony, garlicky goodness.
- Use a Thermometer: If you’re unsure whether the cod is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Add Butter: For a richer dish, add a small pat of butter on top of each fillet before baking. The butter will melt into the fish, adding a luxurious flavor.
Conclusion
Baked cod with lemon and garlic is a light, healthy, and delicious dish that anyone can make. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is easy to follow and yields fantastic results. The combination of flaky cod, tangy lemon, and rich garlic is simple yet flavorful, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Feel free to get creative with side dishes or add your own twist to the recipe by incorporating your favorite herbs and spices. By following the tips and suggestions outlined in this article, you’ll be able to serve up a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. Happy cooking!