There’s something magical about baked cod that makes it the perfect dish for cozy dinners or special occasions. Picture this: flaky, tender fish nestled in a blanket of zesty herbs and bright lemon, wafting delightful aromas that dance through your kitchen. Just the thought makes my taste buds do a happy jig!
This delicious baked cod recipe is not just food; it’s an experience. I remember the first time I served this dish at a family gathering—everyone was raving about the flavors, and let’s be honest, I felt like a culinary superstar. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself after a long week, this flavorful delight is sure to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked cod is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is bright and fresh, with a hint of zest from lemon and herbs
- Visually, the dish is stunning with its golden crust and vibrant colors, sure to wow your guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with rice, veggies, or even on its own!
There was that one time when I surprised my friends with this baked cod recipe—they were convinced I had taken cooking classes in France! Their jaws dropped as they took their first bite, and I couldn’t help but bask in my newfound “chef” status.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Cod Fillets: Fresh fillets are best; they should smell like the ocean—clean and briny.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled juice doesn’t quite cut it.
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Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil for drizzling; it enhances flavor and moisture.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; avoid those pre-minced jars.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also freshness; dried just won’t do.
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Paprika: Sweet paprika gives a lovely warmth; add smoked paprika for an extra kick!
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Salt and Pepper: Basic yet essential—season generously for maximum flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place your cod fillets on the lined sheet, ensuring they have enough space to breathe—no overcrowding here!
Drizzle with Flavor: Gently brush olive oil over each fillet until everyone’s coated nicely. Use about two tablespoons total—this helps lock in moisture while adding flavor.
Add Zesty Goodness: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish liberally. You want that tangy goodness to soak in—think of it as a sunny hug for your cod!
Season Generously: Sprinkle minced garlic all over—don’t hold back! Add salt, pepper, paprika, and toss on that chopped parsley like you’re decorating a cake.
Bake It Up!: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks beautifully golden.
The Finishing Touches: Once out of the oven, give one last squeeze of lemon juice over everything before serving—this elevates those flavors even more!
And there you have it—a simple yet elegant baked cod dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every bite as if it’s your last piece of chocolate cake (because we all know how hard that is to resist).
You Must Know
- Baked cod is a delightful dish that’s not just healthy but incredibly versatile
- This flaky fish absorbs flavors beautifully, making it a favorite among seafood lovers
- The aromatic blend of herbs and spices creates an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, season your cod with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Place it in a greased baking dish and bake for 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, or fresh lemon juice. Adding cherry tomatoes or olives can also enhance the flavor profile, giving your baked cod a Mediterranean twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain its moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always check if your cod is fresh; it should smell like the ocean, not fishy
- For deeper flavor, marinate the fish for at least 30 minutes before cooking
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; aim for 145°F (63°C)
Baking cod reminds me of family dinners where my grandmother would serve her famous baked fish. She always said, “If it doesn’t flake easily, it’s not ready!” A simple tip that has stuck with me through the years.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for baking?
Yes, frozen cod works well; just thaw it before seasoning and baking.
What side dishes pair well with baked cod?
Baked potatoes or steamed vegetables complement baked cod beautifully.
How do I know when my baked cod is done?
Your cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F (63°C).
Baked Cod
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked cod is a delightful dish that embodies comfort and elegance, perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings. This recipe features tender cod fillets drizzled with olive oil, brightened with fresh lemon juice, and seasoned with garlic and herbs. The result is a flavorful fish dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. With its gorgeous golden crust and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this baked cod is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place cod fillets on the sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
- Drizzle olive oil over each fillet and squeeze lemon juice generously.
- Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and chopped parsley evenly on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Add an extra squeeze of lemon juice before serving for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
