Imagine sinking your fork into a piece of succulent cod that’s flaked perfectly and bursting with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that dances on your taste buds. Picture the subtle crunch of the breadcrumbs contrasting with the tender fish while the aroma wafts through your kitchen like an invitation to come closer.
I remember the first time I made this dish—my friends thought I had summoned a gourmet chef from some high-end restaurant. Little did they know I was just channeling my inner Julia Child, armed with lemon slices and garlic like a culinary superhero. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself after a long day, this dish shines bright on any table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic combines simplicity with fantastic flavors that wow everyone
- The vibrant colors make it visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides or serve as a light meal on its own
- Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Everyone raved about how delicious it was while I tried not to do an impromptu victory dance in my kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for firm fillets without any strong fishy odor; they should be glistening and white.
- Lemon: Fresh lemons yield the best juice; opt for ones that feel heavy for their size.
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor; avoid pre-minced options for best results.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness; don’t skimp here!
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping; panko works great too!
- Parsley: Fresh parsley is ideal for garnish; its brightness enhances both flavor and presentation.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it.
Prepare the Fish: Place fresh cod fillets in the greased baking dish. Drizzle them generously with olive oil to keep everything moist during baking.
Add Flavor Magic: Sprinkle minced garlic over the fillets as if you’re casting a spell of flavor. Squeeze fresh lemon juice all over—this will infuse the fish beautifully.
Create Crunchy Topping: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until they’re evenly coated. This gives you that delightful crunch we all crave!
Bake to Perfection: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
Add Finishing Touches: Once cooked, sprinkle chopped parsley over your masterpiece. Serve immediately, preferably while basking in compliments from your guests!
Enjoy your perfectly baked cod while savoring every bite of its tangy lemon-garlic goodness!
You Must Know
- Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is not just a dish; it’s an experience
- The zesty aroma fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist
- This recipe is simple yet elegant, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself on a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats, prepare your cod by seasoning with salt, pepper, lemon, and garlic for maximum flavor. Bake for 12-15 minutes until flaky and tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute cod with halibut or tilapia for variety. Experiment with herbs like dill or parsley to elevate the dish’s freshness. A sprinkle of paprika can also add a delightful color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to maintain its flaky texture without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To maximize flavor, let the cod marinate briefly in lemon juice before baking
- Always choose fresh fish for the best taste and texture
- A drizzle of olive oil enhances moisture and richness while cooking
Baking this cod always takes me back to family dinners where everyone eagerly awaited dinner time. The compliments from my loved ones made every effort worthwhile!
FAQ
What sides pair well with Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?
Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement the flavors beautifully.
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before seasoning and baking.
How do I know when the cod is done cooking?
The fish should flake easily with a fork when properly cooked.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a light, flavorful dish, featuring tender cod fillets infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, perfect for any dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Arrange the cod fillets in the dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle minced garlic over the fish and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil until evenly coated; sprinkle over the fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Substitute cod with halibut or tilapia for variety. Experiment with herbs like dill or add paprika for extra flavor. Allow the cod to marinate in lemon juice briefly before baking for enhanced taste.