Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe | Light & Flavorful
When I first tried this baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic, I honestly couldn’t believe how simple yet mouthwatering it was. With its flaky texture, zesty lemon kick, and the aromatic touch of garlic, this dish has become a regular in my kitchen.
It’s one of those recipes that you barely have to think about but delivers restaurant-quality results every single time. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe shines like a star.
And the best part? It’s healthy, quick, and requires minimal effort! Trust me, once you try it, this might just become your new go-to seafood recipe. You can also enjoy similar comfort in the Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan Recipe, which is equally easy and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of the recipe, let me tell you why this baked cod deserves a spot in your lineup. There are plenty of reasons, but here are the top four:
1. Easy to Prepare
With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep steps, this recipe is as beginner-friendly as it gets. No fancy techniques are needed, and the marinade does most of the work for you. All you need to do is whisk, marinate, and bake!
Plus, there’s no worrying about frying or overcomplicating things in the kitchen. You might also enjoy the quick prep of the Homemade Sausage Egg McMuffin Recipe for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
2. Healthy and Nutritious
If you’re looking for a light meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this recipe has you covered. Cod is full of lean protein and packed with vitamins like B12 and selenium. Add in the heart-healthy olive oil and vitamin C from lemon, and you’ve got a dish that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.
3. Versatile
This recipe lends itself perfectly to customization. Whether you want to add some spice, swap herbs, or use another type of fish, it’s entirely flexible. It also pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile choice for any menu.
4. Bursting with Flavor
The combination of lemon and garlic is simply unbeatable. You get a fresh, tangy zing from the lemon paired with the warm, savory notes of garlic. Together, they elevate the naturally mild flavor of the cod to something exceptional.
5. Perfect for Various Diets
Whether you’re on a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto-friendly diet, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that fits into most dietary lifestyles.
Cooking Time
Concerned about the time commitment? This recipe is lightning-fast to whip up. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6–8 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Dried oregano
- Paprika
Variations
Want to tweak things up to suit your taste or dietary preferences? Here are some ideas:
- Herb Alternatives: Swap parsley with dill or cilantro for a new twist.
- Add Spice: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Butter Base: Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Zesty Extra: Add a splash of white wine to the marinade for added depth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking Dish: To cook the cod evenly.
- Mixing Bowl: For the marinade.
- Whisk: To combine your marinade ingredients.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
How to Make Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic?
If you’re looking for a light, flavorful, and fuss-free dinner, this baked cod with lemon and garlic is a must-try!
Preparing the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets dry to remove excess moisture. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step ensures that the fillets hold onto their flavor as they bake.
Making the Lemon and Garlic Marinade
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and paprika in a bowl. This sauce is the real game-changer! Whisk until it combines into a fragrant, zesty mixture.
Marinating the Cod
Place the seasoned fish into a shallow dish or resealable bag, pouring the marinade over them evenly. Massage the fillets gently to coat. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to soak up all those amazing flavors.
Baking the Cod
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper and place the marinated fillets evenly across it. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the flesh turns opaque and flakes with a fork. Trust me; the aromas will fill your kitchen in the best way possible!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overcook: Cod is best when flaky but still moist. Keep an eye on it after 15 minutes.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs make a noticeable flavor difference.
- Marinate for Flavor: Even if you’re in a rush, a quick 15–20 minutes in the marinade enhances the taste.
- Uniform Sizing: Use fillets of the same thickness for even cooking.
How to Serve Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic?
When it comes to serving, presentation is key! Arrange the cod fillets on a platter and drizzle any leftover juices from the baking dish over them. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of green and squeeze a touch of fresh lemon juice on top. For sides, pair this dish with fluffy rice, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad.
Nutritional Information
This dish is both healthy and flavorful. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 8g
Make Ahead and Storage
Sometimes life gets busy, but this recipe is just as adaptable as it is tasty!
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the marinade up to one day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Marinate the cod for up to 2 hours before baking if you have extra time.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze baked cod for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
And there you have it! A baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic that’s easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and packed with health benefits. Whether it’s for a casual meal or a fancy dinner gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Now go get cooking!
Baked Cod Recipe With Lemon And Garlic Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the cod fillets dry to remove excess moisture. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step ensures that the fillets hold onto their flavor as they bake.
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and paprika in a bowl. This sauce is the real game-changer! Whisk until it combines into a fragrant, zesty mixture.
- Place the seasoned fish into a shallow dish or resealable bag, pouring the marinade over them evenly. Massage the fillets gently to coat. Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to soak up all those amazing flavors.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper and place the marinated fillets evenly across it. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the flesh turns opaque and flakes with a fork. Trust me; the aromas will fill your kitchen in the best way possible!
Notes
- Don’t Overcook: Cod is best when flaky but still moist. Keep an eye on it after 15 minutes.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs make a noticeable flavor difference.
- Marinate for Flavor: Even if you’re in a rush, a quick 15–20 minutes in the marinade enhances the taste.
- Uniform Sizing: Use fillets of the same thickness for even cooking.
