The aroma of fresh lemon zest combined with sizzling garlic fills the air as you prepare to dive into the world of Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. Picture this: tender cod fillets lightly kissed by the golden sun, drizzled in a luscious citrusy sauce that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
I remember the first time I made this dish for friends; they were skeptical at first. But once they tasted that flaky fish bursting with flavor, they transformed into enthusiastic fans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this dish is bound to leave your guests raving about your culinary prowess while you bask in the glory of minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is not only quick but bursting with flavor
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- You can effortlessly adapt it based on what you have on hand
- Enjoy it as a light dinner or serve it at special occasions for an impressive meal
I once served this dish to my friends during a casual get-together, and their delighted reactions still make me smile.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cod Fillets: Look for firm, fresh fillets; wild-caught is often more flavorful.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves give the best flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic powerhouse.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish dramatically.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness and depth.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to finish the dish beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; season generously but smartly!
- Lemon Zest: Adds an extra zing; be sure to use organic lemons if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking throughout your fish.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil. Lay out those glorious cod fillets like they’re ready for their big moment.
Season Generously: Sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of the cod fillets. Don’t hold back—these seasoning superheroes will elevate your dish’s flavor profile!
Create the Zesty Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and zest. This mixture will be your secret weapon in flavor town!
Coat the Fish: Drizzle that zesty mixture over your cod fillets like you’re dressing them up for a fancy gala. Coat them well so every bite bursts with flavor!
Bake Away!: Pop those beauties into the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they are opaque and flake easily with a fork. Your kitchen should now smell like heaven!
Enjoy serving this delightful Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic hot from the oven! Pair it with steamed veggies or fluffy rice to complete your meal masterpiece.
You Must Know
- Baked cod with lemon and garlic is a delightful dish that’s both easy and impressive
- The bright flavors brighten up any dinner table, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal
- Don’t underestimate the power of fresh ingredients—they truly make all the difference!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve a perfectly baked cod with lemon and garlic, preheat your oven to 400°F while you prepare your ingredients. Season the fish and let it marinate briefly before baking; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your baked cod by adding your favorite herbs or swapping lemon for lime. Consider tossing in some cherry tomatoes or olives for extra flavor and color to the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving its texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh cod for the best flavor; frozen can become rubbery
- Avoid overcooking by checking for doneness after 12 minutes—fish should flake easily
- Pair with vibrant sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad to elevate your meal experience
Creating this baked cod dish reminds me of that one dinner party where I felt like a culinary rockstar, impressing my friends with this simple yet flavorful recipe!
FAQ
What type of fish is best for baked cod with lemon and garlic?
Cod is ideal due to its mild flavor and flaky texture when cooked.
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even results.
What side dishes pair well with baked cod?
Serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Enjoy a quick and flavorful Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, perfect for a healthy dinner that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (130g each)
- 4 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season both sides of the cod fillets with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Drizzle the mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (130g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Customize your dish by adding herbs like dill or thyme. For added color and flavor, toss in sliced cherry tomatoes or olives before baking.