Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is like a culinary hug that whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. Picture a flaky, tender fillet swimming in a zesty pool of citrus and aromatic garlic—sounds heavenly, right? This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your palate while promising simplicity in every bite.
Now let’s get personal! I remember the first time I attempted this dish; I had guests over who were starving after a long day. With the tantalizing aroma filling the air, my friends couldn’t help but gather around the kitchen. The moment they took their first bite, it was as if a symphony began—their delighted murmurs became the soundtrack of that night!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip this up on any busy weeknight
- Bursting with vibrant flavors from fresh lemon and garlic makes each bite irresistible
- Visually stunning with its golden crust, it will impress your guests at any gathering
- This dish is versatile enough to pair beautifully with salads or rice for a complete meal
I once served this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic at a dinner party where the compliments flowed more freely than the wine—my dining table felt like an awards ceremony!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cod Fillets: Choose firm fillets that smell like the ocean—not like last week’s gym socks—for optimal freshness.
- Fresh Lemons: Juicy lemons bring that zesty punch; look for ones that feel heavy for their size.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic packs a flavor punch—so don’t skimp on it!
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavors while keeping everything moist.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings—don’t forget to sprinkle them generously for maximum flavor!
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; it’s like confetti for your food!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your cod.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Drizzle olive oil into a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Season the Fish: Place fresh cod fillets in the baking dish. Squeeze half of one lemon over them and sprinkle salt and pepper generously.
Add Garlic Goodness: Mince those garlic cloves like your life depends on it! Distribute them evenly over the fillets for maximum flavor infusion.
Lemon Time!: Slice the remaining lemons thinly and arrange them prettily atop your seasoned fillets because presentation matters!
Bake It Up!: Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork—a sure sign it’s done!
Enjoy the aromatic scent wafting through your home as you eagerly await this delightful meal!
Now you’re all set to impress everyone around you with your incredible culinary skills—and maybe even earn yourself some bragging rights in the kitchen! Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Baked cod with lemon and garlic is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- The aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone think you’re a gourmet chef
- Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners feel special without the hassle
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, season the cod with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Place it in a baking dish, then roast for about 12-15 minutes until flaky.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out lemon for lime or add herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. You might even throw in some sliced bell peppers for color and crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it back in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; stale spices can dull your dish
- Don’t overcook the cod; keep an eye on it as different ovens vary
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving adds a lovely finish!
Cooking this baked cod with lemon and garlic always reminds me of my Aunt Mary’s dinner parties where we’d gather around her table sharing stories and laughter over delicious food.
FAQ
What type of cod is best for baking?
Fresh or frozen Atlantic cod works wonderfully for baking.
Can I use other fish instead of cod?
Yes, tilapia or haddock can be great alternatives to cod in this recipe.
How do I know when the cod is done?
The cod should flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Indulge in this easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, featuring tender cod fillets infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 fresh cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 lemon (juiced and sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Drizzle olive oil in a baking dish.
- Place cod fillets in the dish; squeeze half a lemon over them and season with salt and pepper.
- Distribute minced garlic evenly over the fillets.
- Top the fish with sliced lemons for an extra burst of flavor.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
