Elevate your dining experience with our delectable Baked Cod recipe, generously infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and the aromatic charm of garlic. This dish is a harmonious symphony of flavors, offering a perfect balance between succulent cod fillets and a tangy lemon sauce, making it a culinary masterpiece worth savoring.
In our cozy home, the Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic has become a cherished tradition. Every time I serve it, the tantalizing aroma wafts through the kitchen, drawing my family to the table with eager anticipation. My husband, initially a skeptic of fish dishes, became an instant fan after the first bite. Now, it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of togetherness and exquisite flavors that we look forward to sharing regularly.
Why This Lemon-Garlic Cod Recipe is a Must-Try!
- Flavor Fusion: Immerse yourself in a delightful marriage of citrusy lemon, rich olive oil, and the savory essence of garlic, perfectly complementing the mild sweetness of the cod.
- Textural Delight: The cod fillets are coated in a harmonious blend of all-purpose flour and a selection of aromatic spices, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, flaky perfection inside.
- Quick and Effortless: With a straightforward process, this recipe allows you to achieve gourmet results without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
- Versatile Searing Technique: Searing the fish briefly before baking locks in moisture, ensuring a succulent outcome that delights the palate.
- Healthful Indulgence: Revel in a guilt-free culinary indulgence with the goodness of olive oil and the nutritional benefits of cod.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lb Cod fillet pieces (about 680 grams)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley leaves Lemon Sauce:
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced For Coating:
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ¾ teaspoon sweet Spanish paprika
- ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (about 204 degrees C).
- In a shallow bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter (excluding garlic). Set aside.
- In another shallow bowl, mix all-purpose flour, coriander, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Place it next to the lemon sauce.
- Pat the cod fillets dry. Dip each fillet in the lemon sauce, followed by the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour, reserving the lemon sauce for later.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet (or an oven-safe pan) over medium-high heat. Sear the cod on each side for about 2 minutes to add color, but do not fully cook. Remove the skillet from heat.
- To the reserved lemon sauce, add minced garlic and mix. Drizzle the garlic-infused sauce over the cod fillets.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the fish flakes easily with a fork (approximately 10 minutes, but start checking earlier). Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes: For a lighter version, you can substitute the butter with additional olive oil. Experiment with different herbs and spices in the coating to personalize the flavor profile. Adjust baking time based on the thickness of your cod fillets for optimal results.
