Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you craving a meal that’s both incredibly delicious and unbelievably easy to whip up? Then you’ve come to the right place. This baked cod with lemon and garlic recipe is my go-to for a weeknight dinner that feels fancy but takes barely any time. Forget complicated recipes and long prep times; this dish is all about fresh, vibrant flavors and minimal fuss. Just imagine: flaky, tender cod, infused with the bright zest of lemon and the aromatic punch of garlic, all baked to perfection. You’ll be transported to a seaside restaurant without leaving your kitchen!

The taste? Pure bliss. The cod is so moist and delicate, it practically melts in your mouth. The lemon adds a beautiful brightness that cuts through the richness of the fish, while the garlic provides a subtle yet satisfying savory note. The texture is perfectly balanced: a tender, juicy fish with a slightly crisp edge from the baking. And did I mention how incredibly quick it is? This recipe is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe isn’t just about the amazing taste and texture; it’s also about the feeling it evokes. It’s the kind of meal that instantly transports you to a relaxed, comforting atmosphere. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a romantic dinner for two, or even a simple yet impressive meal for guests. So, are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game? Let’s get baking!

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish. I’ve kept the ingredient list simple and accessible, so you likely already have most of these in your pantry!

• 4 (6 oz) cod fillets: The star of the show! Look for fresh, firm cod fillets for the best results.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps the cod cook evenly. A good quality olive oil makes a difference!
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic heart of this recipe. Fresh garlic is always best, but pre-minced is fine in a pinch.
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced: The bright, zesty flavor of lemon is what really makes this dish sing! Don’t skip the zest – it adds a wonderful layer of flavor.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the cod.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: A touch of spice to balance the bright lemon.
• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smokiness and a beautiful reddish hue. Feel free to skip this if you don’t have it on hand.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, vibrant garnish for a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
• Lemon slices: For serving, adding an extra touch of elegance and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! This recipe is incredibly straightforward, but following these steps will ensure perfectly baked cod every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for even cooking. While the oven is heating up, prepare the cod.
2. Prepare the cod fillets: Gently pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the oven. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
3. Make the garlic-lemon mixture: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This mixture will infuse the cod with amazing flavor. Add the olive oil to this mixture. Mix well.
4. Marinate (optional): For extra flavor, you can marinate the cod in the garlic-lemon mixture for 10-15 minutes. However, this isn’t strictly necessary – you can proceed directly to the next step if you’re short on time.
5. Bake the cod: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish. Pour the garlic-lemon mixture evenly over the fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. A good tip is to check for doneness around the 12-minute mark – every oven is slightly different.
7. Garnish and serve: Once cooked, garnish the cod with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon slices.

Pro Tip: For extra crispy skin, you can broil the cod for the last minute or two of cooking time. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to help you achieve perfectly baked cod every time:

• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure there’s enough space between the fillets for even cooking and browning.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic make a huge difference in the overall flavor of the dish.
• Check for doneness: The best way to know if the cod is cooked through is to gently flake it with a fork. It should flake easily without being mushy.
• Don’t overcook the cod: Overcooked cod will be dry and tough. It’s better to slightly undercook it than overcook it.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and garlic to your preference.

Variations to Try

This recipe is a fantastic base for endless variations. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique twist!

• Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano to the garlic-lemon mixture.
• Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Herb-infused Cod: Experiment with different herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary.
• Creamy Cod: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche to the finished dish for extra creaminess.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently microwave it for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to crisp up the skin again. Avoid over-reheating, as this can dry out the fish. Freezing is also an option; wrap the cod tightly in freezer-safe wrap and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen cod fillets? A: Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking, otherwise, the cooking time will be significantly longer and the cod might be unevenly cooked.

Q: What other types of fish can I use in this recipe? A: Other firm white fish like halibut, snapper, or sea bass will work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness and type of fish you are using.

Q: How long does the baked cod last in the refrigerator? A: Properly stored in an airtight container, leftover baked cod will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, it’s best to discard it.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: You can prepare the garlic-lemon mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to bake the cod just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

The Final Word

This baked cod with lemon and garlic recipe is a true winner – it’s quick, easy, healthy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender, flaky cod, bright lemon, and fragrant garlic is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels like a special occasion. So, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your experience – I’d love to hear from you. Happy cooking!

Sharing is caring!