If you’re searching for a delightful way to elevate your weeknight dinners, look no further than this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of flaky, tender cod kissed with bright lemon and aromatic garlic that brings out the freshest flavors with minimal effort. This dish is not only speedy to prepare but a fantastic crowd-pleaser, offering a vibrant balance of zest and warmth that will make you want to add it to your regular rotation. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to whenever you crave something light yet utterly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe lies in its beautifully simple ingredients, each chosen to enhance the fish’s delicate flavor and create an irresistible aroma and texture. Every item adds a special note, whether it’s the brightness of fresh lemon zest or the richness of melted butter, creating a dish that shines both in taste and appearance.
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best flaky texture and mild flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps keep the fish moist during baking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with pungent, savory notes that complement the cod perfectly.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Provides zesty brightness and beautiful visual appeal on top of the fillets.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor without adding extra acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally, balancing the lemon and spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness and a lovely color to the fish.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a delicate herbal undertone that pairs beautifully with garlic and lemon.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, green finish and a burst of mild peppery flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds luscious creaminess and helps to meld all the flavors together while baking.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cod
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even cooking and makes cleanup a breeze. Next, pat each cod fillet dry with a paper towel—this step is key as it helps the seasoning stick better and prevents the fish from steaming, so you get that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Marinade
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, sea salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano. This mixture is the heart and soul of your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe, packing in savory, citrusy, and slightly smoky notes that will elevate every bite.
Step 3: Season the Fillets
Brush the marinade evenly across the cod fillets, ensuring each piece is well-coated. The olive oil and melted butter create a lovely glaze that locks in moisture, while the garlic and herbs infuse their fragrant goodness into the fish as it bakes.
Step 4: Add Butter and Lemon
Drizzle the melted butter over every fillet for an extra layer of richness. Then, place lemon slices on top of each fillet, which roast beautifully in the oven and release their bright juices, adding a fresh citrus punch.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork—a sign that it’s cooked just right, tender and juicy inside with beautifully infused flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the fish for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its most flavorful and warm.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also layers in a mild herbal freshness that complements the citrus and garlic beautifully. For a little extra zing, you might add a few red pepper flakes or a pinch of smoked paprika just before serving.
Side Dishes
This baked cod pairs wonderfully with simple sides that let its flavors shine. Think garlic roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a bright, crunchy salad. Rice pilaf or quinoa also work great to soak up any delicious buttery lemon juices leftover on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the cod on a bed of sautéed spinach or a colorful ratatouille. Garnish each plate with thin lemon wedges and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You can even sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or capers for an added textural contrast that’ll wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked cod in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for up to two days while maintaining good flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to store the baked cod for longer, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen baked cod can last up to three months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a month for optimal taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the fish and diminish the fresh flavors of the Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of cod?
Absolutely! While cod is ideal for its flaky texture and mild flavor, other white fish like haddock, pollock, or halibut can work beautifully with this recipe.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemon and garlic?
Fresh lemon and garlic give the best flavor, imparting brightness and pungency that dried or bottled alternatives can’t match. They are worth the small extra effort in this simple dish.
What if I don’t have paprika or oregano?
You can substitute paprika with a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika, and oregano can be swapped with thyme or basil. These tweaks will slightly change the flavor profile but still deliver a delicious result.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How do I ensure the cod stays moist during baking?
Patting the fish dry before seasoning and coating it with olive oil and melted butter helps lock in moisture, while baking at a moderate temperature ensures it cooks evenly without drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is pure joy on a plate—bright, flavorful, and effortlessly elegant. It’s one of those meals that feels special but comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weekdays or casual dinner parties. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with how simple ingredients transform into something truly delicious. Happy cooking!
Print
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and flavorful baked cod recipe that features tender cod fillets infused with zesty lemon, garlic, and herbs. Perfectly baked to flaky perfection, this dish is quick to prepare and ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Seasoning and Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the cod fillets: Pat the cod dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then place the fillets evenly spaced on the baking sheet.
- Make the seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, sea salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano until well blended.
- Season the cod: Using a brush, evenly coat the cod fillets with the seasoning mixture to ensure all the flavors soak into the fish.
- Add butter and lemon slices: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over each fillet and place lemon slices on top for extra flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the cod from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Patting the cod dry is important to achieve a nice texture and helps the seasoning stick better.
- The lemon slices add a subtle citrus aroma and keep the fish moist during baking.
- You can substitute fresh parsley with dill or cilantro if preferred.
- Check the fish at 12 minutes to avoid overcooking, as cod can dry out quickly.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
