Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Cod Fillets: Fresh cod is great for this dish due to its mild flavor and flaky texture. If cod is hard to find, you can substitute it with tilapia, haddock, or even salmon for a different taste.

Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is perfect for drizzling over cod. For a different flavor, try avocado oil or melted butter. Both can add richness!

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh, use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove as a substitute. Keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different.

Lemon: Fresh lemons are the best option for zest and juice. If you only have bottled lemon juice, that can work in a pinch, but it won’t have the same freshness.

Fresh Parsley: This adds a burst of color and flavor. If you don’t have parsley, fresh cilantro or dill can offer a unique twist!

How Can I Ensure My Cod is Perfectly Cooked?

Cooking cod perfectly means it should be flaky and moist without being dry. Here’s how to achieve that:

• Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps cook the cod evenly.
• Cook cod at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness. The fish is done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
• Don’t overcook! Checking it a minute or two early helps avoid dryness.

Enjoy your cooking experience! This dish is easy and rewarding, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and subtle spice)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon slices, for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, making it a quick total of around 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time but still want something delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your cod cooks evenly and thoroughly.

2. Mix the Lemon Garlic Marinade:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if you’re using it). This flavorful mixture will be the star of the dish.

3. Arrange the Cod Fillets:

Take a baking dish and place the cod fillets in a single layer. Make sure they have a little space between them for even cooking.

4. Coat the Cod:

Pour the lemon garlic mixture evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is nicely coated. This will infuse the fish with all that delicious flavor.

5. Bake the Cod:

Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. The cod is ready when it becomes opaque and flakes easily when you poke it with a fork.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Once the cod is done baking, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh touch. Serve the cod immediately with lemon slices on the side for added flavor.

Enjoy your flavorful, tender baked cod with delightful lemon and garlic notes! It makes for a lovely meal paired with your favorite side dishes.

FAQs About Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Can I Use Frozen Cod Fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To safely thaw, place them in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method by submerging the sealed fillets in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning.

What Can I Substitute for Cod?

If you can’t find cod, other mild white fish like tilapia, haddock, or even salmon work great too! The cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on your fish for doneness.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or cover and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook it, or the fish can become dry!

Can I Add More Veggies to This Dish?

Absolutely! You can add sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the baking dish with the cod. Just toss them in the lemon garlic marinade as well, and adjust the baking time accordingly if needed—they may require an additional 5 minutes, depending on the type of vegetables you choose.