Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a light, flavorful, and healthy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a wholesome lunch. The delicate flavor of the cod is enhanced with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s baked to perfection, creating a tender, flaky texture that melts in your mouth. Simple, nutritious, and elegant!
Ingredients (Serves 4):
4 cod fillets (5–6 oz each)
3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Lemon wedges (for garnish)
Optional: 1 tsp paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for extra kick
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together:
2 tbsp olive oil
Minced garlic
Lemon juice and zest
Lemon pepper seasoning
Salt and pepper
Season the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the baking dish. Drizzle the garlic lemon mixture evenly over each fillet.
Bake the Cod
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Thicker fillets may need an extra 1–2 minutes.
Garnish & Serve
Drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Optional Sides:
Roasted vegetables
Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed rice or couscous
Fresh green salad
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~220 kcal
Protein 28g
Total Fat 10g
Saturated Fat 1.5g
Carbohydrates 3g
Fiber 0.5g
Sugar 0.5g
Sodium 300mg
Values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen cod?
A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.
Q: What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?
A: You can use a mix of black pepper, a bit of lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
Q: Can I use other fish instead of cod?
A: Absolutely. Haddock, halibut, or tilapia work well with this recipe too.
Q: How do I know the cod is done?
A: The flesh will turn opaque and easily flake with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can prep the marinade and season the cod a few hours in advance. Store it covered in the fridge.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients used are na
turally gluten-free.