Savory Baked Cod: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Enjoy

The aroma of Baked Cod wafts through the kitchen, wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your fork into tender, flaky fish seasoned just right, each bite bursting with delightful flavors that dance on your palate. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a culinary embrace that whispers, “You deserve this!”

If you’re anything like me, you probably have those days when dinner feels like an Olympic event—juggling pots, pans, and the occasional rogue vegetable. But worry not! Baked Cod is here to save the day. It’s an easy dish that even your most chaotic evenings can’t mess up. Plus, it’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or when you’re simply celebrating surviving another Monday.

Ingredients for Baked Cod

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for fillets that are firm and have a bright appearance. Freshness is key to achieving the best flavor.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the fish’s natural flavors and provide moisture.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds that zesty brightness that perfectly complements the cod.

• Garlic Powder: A must-have for enhancing flavors without the fuss of chopping fresh garlic.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the delicious nuances in your dish.

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness at serving time.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Baked Cod

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your cod doesn’t stick around longer than necessary.

Step 2: Prepare Your Cod

Place the fresh cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle them generously with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder over the top. Season well with salt and pepper because bland food is banned in my kitchen!

Step 3: Squeeze That Lemon

Grab a lemon and squeeze its juice all over those lovely cod fillets like you’re giving them a citrusy spa treatment. Trust me; this step is where magic happens.

Step 4: Get That Crust Going

Pop the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. You want it golden brown on top but still juicy inside.

Step 5: Garnish Like a Pro

Once your cod is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over it for that beautiful pop of color.

Step 6: Serve Up!

Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining juices from the baking dish over each serving for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece while patting yourself on the back!

What could be better than enjoying Baked Cod after a long day? With its rich flavors and simple preparation process, this delightful recipe will quickly become one of your go-to dishes. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, Baked Cod promises satisfaction every time! For more inspiration, check out this Explore more main dishes recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, pat the cod dry and season it generously. Then, prepare any veggies you want to roast alongside the fish. Pop everything in the oven together for perfectly cooked cod and delicious sides.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cod for another white fish like haddock or tilapia if that’s what you have. You can also play with spices; try adding a splash of lemon juice or some fresh herbs to elevate flavors to new heights.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring it remains tender.

Sometimes I think back to that dinner party where I served this baked cod. Everyone kept raving about how restaurant-quality it was—little did they know how simple it actually was!

FAQs :

What is the best way to season Baked Cod?

To enhance the flavor of Baked Cod, use a blend of herbs and spices. A simple mixture of lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper works wonderfully. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a more vibrant taste. Consider using paprika for a hint of smokiness or chili flakes for some heat. Marinating the fish for at least 30 minutes before baking can intensify the flavors even further.

How long should I bake Baked Cod?

The ideal baking time for Baked Cod depends on its thickness. Generally, bake cod fillets at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes. Check for doneness; the fish should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque appearance. Thicker pieces may require additional time, so it’s important to monitor closely to avoid overcooking. For more inspiration, check out this check out cooking tips recipe.

Can I use frozen fish for Baked Cod?

Yes, you can use frozen fish for Baked Cod. If using frozen fillets, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Alternatively, you can bake them directly from frozen; just increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Using frozen cod can be convenient and still yield delicious results.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Baked Cod?

Baked Cod pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy option. A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette complements the fish’s flavors well. For something heartier, try mashed potatoes or quinoa seasoned with herbs to create a balanced meal.

Conclusion for Baked Cod :

Baked Cod is a versatile and nutritious dish that everyone can enjoy. By seasoning it well and adjusting baking times based on thickness, you ensure perfectly cooked fish every time. Utilizing fresh ingredients enhances its flavor profile and makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike. Pairing it with complementary side dishes rounds out your meal beautifully. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and sides to make this baked dish your own!

Print

Baked Cod

---

• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Baked Cod is a simple yet elegant dish that transforms fresh cod fillets into a culinary delight. With its buttery, lemon-infused crust and tender, flaky texture, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a restaurant-quality meal that will impress your family and friends. Pair it with your favorite sides for a nutritious and satisfying dinner everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper on top.
3. Squeeze lemon juice evenly over the fillets.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is golden brown.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
• Calories: 232
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 445 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 33 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate cod fillets in lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before baking. Substitute cod with haddock or tilapia for variety.