Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that is not only flavorful but also incredibly simple? Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic checks all the boxes: it’s juicy, zesty, and packed with delightful flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing! Did you know that cod is one of the most popular fish dishes in households, often hailed for its mild flavor and flaky texture? On a busy weekday, there’s nothing like whipping this up in under 30 minutes. If you love easy recipes that taste amazing, you’ll adore this dish as much as our beloved creamy garlic chicken. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress your family!
What is Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?
So, what’s the story behind the name “Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic”? A little birdie tells me it’s all about those bright flavors! Imagine taking a succulent fillet of cod and giving it a warm, zesty hug from the lemon and garlic. It’s like a flavor party, and everyone’s invited—but really, who wouldn’t want to dive into a dish that mixes simple ingredients and creates a culinary masterpiece? As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish simply knows how to win hearts. So, why not grab that lemon and give this delightful recipe a whirl?
Why You’ll Love This
You’re probably wondering why Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic deserves a spot on your dinner table. Here are three key reasons to make you a fan:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon and garlic elevates the mild cod to a whole new level—think zesty freshness wrapped around tender fish that melts in your mouth!
- Budget-Friendly: Why splurge at a restaurant when you can recreate this delightful dish at home for a fraction of the cost? Pair it with a simple salad or rice, and you’ve got a meal that looks fancy without breaking the bank.
- Versatile Toppings: From fresh parsley to crunchy lemon slices, the toppings turn this dish into a visual delight while adding layers of taste. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how a few simple ingredients can create restaurant-quality food.
If you’re a fan of our lemon herb chicken, you’re going to find joy in this equally tasty dish! So, why not grab the ingredients and discover just how wonderful cooking at home can be?
How to Make
Quick Overview
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is as easy as it sounds! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can serve up a delicious, satisfying meal in about 25 minutes. This dish’s light, flaky texture paired with its zesty flavor makes it perfect for any night of the week—impress your family without hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 6 oz cod fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for serving
Step-by-Step
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get things nice and toasty.
- Prepare Your Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper—this will make clean-up a breeze!
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until well mixed.
- Season the Cod: Place your cod fillets into the baking dish and spoon the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the top—make sure each piece is well-coated!
- Bake the Cod: Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices—the perfect finishing touch!
What to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Wondering what to serve alongside your zesty baked cod? Consider pairing it with a cool cucumber salad or fluffy quinoa, which brings texture and freshness without overwhelming the dish. For a delightful drink, a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon will complement the dinner perfectly!
Top Tips for Perfecting
To take your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic to the next level, consider these tips:
- Fresh Herbs: Swap parsley for dill or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
- Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cod, as thinner fillets cook faster—no one likes overcooked fish!
- Leftovers? Room temperature is a no-go; keep any leftovers refrigerated and consume within 2 days to enjoy maximum freshness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers—lucky you! To keep your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic tasting fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For longer storage, vacuum-seal the cod and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use your microwave for quicker results.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before following the recipe.
What if I don’t have paprika?
No worries! You can leave it out or replace it with chili powder for a bit of spice.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Sure thing! Feel free to add sliced bell peppers or asparagus to the baking dish for extra nutrition.
Conclusion
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is not just a recipe; it’s an adventure in flavors! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this dish has you covered. The good news? It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and has that wow factor that’ll make you a superstar in the kitchen. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delightful meal that your family will adore. Happy cooking!
—
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 pieces 6 oz cod fillets Fresh or thawed if frozen
- 2 tbsp olive oil Can substitute with another oil if desired
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced for best flavor
- 1 piece lemon, zested and juiced Use fresh for best flavor
- 1/2 tsp salt Adjust according to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper Freshly cracked is recommended
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional) Adds color and mild flavor
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
- as needed pieces lemon slices, for serving Fresh lemon slices for added presentation
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until well mixed.
- Place the cod fillets into the baking dish and spoon the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the top, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Cooking
- Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serving
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon slices.
