Lemon-Herb Baked Cod

Introduction

I first tried this Lemon-Herb Baked Cod recipe one evening when I was craving something light, healthy, and full of flavor. It quickly became a family favorite. The combination of fresh lemon slices, fragrant herbs, and tender cod fillets creates a perfect balance of flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The cod is light, flaky, and perfectly seasoned, making it a wonderful dish for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. The fresh parsley adds a burst of color, and the simplicity of the dish makes it incredibly easy to prepare, even on the busiest of days. My family loves it paired with roasted vegetables and quinoa for a wholesome meal. It’s a go-to dish in our household, and I’m confident it will become one of your favorites too!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon-Herb Baked Cod

Lemon-Herb Baked Cod is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a simple, elegant meal. The combination of fresh lemon, aromatic herbs, and flaky white cod fillets creates a delightful and satisfying dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just a few ingredients, a little seasoning, and a quick bake in the oven. The result is a dish that’s both light and filling, with vibrant flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you’re watching your calorie intake or simply craving something fresh and flavorful, this Lemon-Herb Baked Cod is the perfect choice.

Ingredients

To make this Lemon-Herb Baked Cod, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 lemons, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s fully heated before placing the fish in to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Place the lemon slices in the bottom of a baking dish. The lemon slices act as a base for the fish, adding a light citrus flavor to the cod as it bakes.

Step 3: Season the Fish

Drizzle the cod fillets with olive oil, ensuring each fillet is lightly coated. Sprinkle the fish with dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Season with salt and pepper to taste. This combination of herbs and spices will create a fragrant, savory coating for the fish.

Step 4: Arrange the Fish

Place the seasoned cod fillets on top of the lemon slices in the baking dish. The fish should sit directly on the lemon slices, which will infuse the cod with a citrusy, aromatic flavor as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Fish

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The cod should be opaque and tender. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.

Step 6: Serve

Once the fish is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 cod fillet
• Calories: 240 kcal
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

How to Serve

Lemon-Herb Baked Cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some great ideas to serve with this dish:

• With Roasted Vegetables:
  Pair the cod with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for a well-rounded, healthy meal.
• With Quinoa or Rice:
  Serve the cod over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added texture and nutrients. The light and fluffy grains complement the flaky cod perfectly.
• With a Simple Salad:
  A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great accompaniment to the rich flavors of the baked cod.
• With Mashed Potatoes:
  Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with the citrusy and herb-infused cod.
• With a Lemon-Dill Sauce:
  For extra flavor, serve the cod with a drizzle of lemon-dill sauce or a yogurt-based dressing.

Additional Tips

1. Marinate for Extra Flavor:
   For an even more flavorful dish, marinate the cod fillets in the lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for 30 minutes before baking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the fish and enhance its natural taste.
2. Use Fresh Herbs:
   If you have fresh oregano and thyme on hand, feel free to use them instead of dried herbs. Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor to the dish.
3. Add a Zesty Kick:
   If you like some heat, add a bit more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
4. Check for Freshness:
   When purchasing cod fillets, make sure they are fresh, firm, and translucent. Fresh cod should have a clean, oceanic scent, not a fishy one.
5. Don’t Overcook the Fish:
   Cod is best when it’s baked just until it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can cause the fish to become dry, so keep a close eye on it in the oven.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe works well with other mild, flaky fish such as tilapia, halibut, or flounder.

2. How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The fish should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. If it’s still translucent, it needs a little more time in the oven.

3. Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, you can use frozen cod, but be sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking to ensure even baking.

4. Can I cook this dish on the stovetop?
For a quicker version, you can pan-sear the cod fillets in olive oil and then finish them in the oven for a few minutes. However, baking ensures the fish stays moist and tender.

5. Can I make this recipe without lemons?
While lemons provide the signature flavor, you can substitute with lime or a splash of white wine for a slightly different, but still delicious, taste.

6. How long should I marinate the fish?
Marinating the cod for about 30 minutes in the lemon and herb mixture will give it more flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake it immediately.

7. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Yes, you can add vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the dish for a one-pan meal. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking.

8. Can I make this recipe in advance?
While cod is best served fresh, you can prep the dish by marinating the fish and slicing the lemons ahead of time. Just bake it on the day you plan to serve it.

9. Can I use olive oil spray instead of drizzling the oil?
Yes, you can use olive oil spray for a lighter coating of the fish, but drizzling the oil allows for more flavor and moisture.

10. Can I use a different herb than oregano?
Feel free to substitute with other herbs such as basil, rosemary, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

Lemon-Herb Baked Cod is a delicious, healthy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of citrusy lemon, fragrant herbs, and tender cod creates a delightful meal that’s light yet satisfying. Whether served with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad, this dish is versatile and easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and a quick baking process, it’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful fish dinner that everyone will love. Try this recipe today for a fresh, flavorful, and wholesome meal!

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