Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that feels effortlessly elegant yet comes together in no time, this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is an absolute winner. The delicate flakiness of cod paired with bright lemon and warm garlic creates a symphony of flavors that’s both fresh and comforting. It’s brightened by a hint of paprika and oregano, finished with butter for that irresistible richness, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests. Dive into this glowing combination that turns simple ingredients into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe plays a crucial role, keeping the flavors clean and vibrant. These essentials work together to bring out the natural sweetness of the fish while adding layers of zest and herbaceous warmth.

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth base for the garlic and herbs to infuse.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant punch that pairs beautifully with lemon.
• 1 lemon, sliced: Brings fresh acidity and a lovely aroma during baking.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies lemon flavor without adding extra juice.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors while seasoning the cod perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right amount of gentle heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color contrast.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings herbaceous depth that complements the lemon and garlic.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh finish that brightens every bite before serving.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Gives a silky richness that rounds out the dish.

How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cod

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your fish from sticking and make cleanup easier. Then, gently pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel — this step helps the seasoning stick and ensures even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Brush-On Sauce

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, sea salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. This simple yet aromatic mixture is the backbone of your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe, infusing the fillets with a burst of bright, savory, and slightly smoky flavors.

Step 3: Season and Butter the Fillets

Brush the garlic and herb mixture evenly over each cod fillet, ensuring every inch gets a flavorful coating. Next, drizzle the melted butter over the fish to add a luscious, silky finish that helps the fillets develop a delicate golden tint as they bake. Finally, top each piece of fish with a slice of fresh lemon for extra citrus aroma and moisture while cooking.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Flaky

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cod for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the fish so it doesn’t overcook; the fillets are done when they easily flake apart with a fork. This short bake time locks in moisture, giving you tender, flaky cod every time.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. This vibrant green herb adds a pop of color and a fresh finish that balances the richness of the garlic butter. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its freshest and most flavorful.

How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is essential, but feel free to experiment with other vibrant herbs like dill or chives for a twist. A little extra lemon zest or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the presentation and flavor even further, making every bite a delight.

Side Dishes

This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides such as steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp green salad. You can also serve it alongside fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the buttery, lemony sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a unique touch, serve the cod nestled on a bed of sautéed spinach or over creamy mashed cauliflower. Plating the lemon slices artistically on top creates a restaurant-worthy look, and adding edible flowers or microgreens can turn this humble dish into a showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to keep it cool and separate from any wet sides to maintain the texture as best as possible.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze leftover cod by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It’s best to consume frozen cod within one month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the cod in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the fillets flaky and tender, as microwaves tend to dry out fish.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its mild flavor and firm texture, similar white fish like haddock or halibut can work beautifully in this recipe. Adjust baking time accordingly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone seeking a wholesome, clean meal.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the seasoning mixture and lemon slices in advance, then brush and bake just before serving. However, baking immediately after seasoning ensures the freshest flavor and texture in the cod.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic provides the best flavor here, but in a pinch, you can substitute with high-quality garlic powder. Use about 1/2 teaspoon instead of the minced cloves, and mix it into the oil before brushing.

How can I make this recipe more flavorful?

For an extra punch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for mild heat or a splash of white wine to drizzle over the fillets before baking. Both add depth while complementing the lemon and garlic beautifully.

Final Thoughts

If you crave a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate but is easy to make any night of the week, then this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is your new go-to. It’s packed with vibrant, fresh flavors and requires just a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand. Give it a try and watch how it soon becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen.

Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a simple, flavorful seafood dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The cod fillets are seasoned with a blend of garlic, lemon zest, paprika, and oregano, then baked to tender perfection and topped with fresh parsley for a bright finish.

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Ingredients

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Fish

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

Seasoning & Toppings

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Dry and Arrange the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove any moisture, then place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, sea salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano to create a flavorful marinade.
4. Brush Seasoning onto Cod: Evenly brush the seasoned olive oil mixture over the top of each cod fillet, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
5. Add Butter and Lemon Slices: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the fillets, then top each fillet with lemon slices for a fresh citrus aroma.
6. Bake the Cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for color and herbaceous notes, and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Ensure the cod fillets are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Use fresh lemon for the best citrus flavor; zest before slicing the lemon.
• Don’t overbake the cod to keep it moist and flaky.
• Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American