Elevate your seafood game with this delightful Baked Cod recipe featuring zesty lemon and garlic flavors. Tender cod fillets are coated in a tangy lemon sauce, seasoned with aromatic spices, and baked to perfection. With a crispy exterior and moist, flaky interior, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic has become a beloved favorite in our household, especially on nights when we crave a light yet flavorful meal. I still remember the first time I made it for my family. As the aroma of garlic and lemon filled the kitchen, anticipation mounted for the delicious dish to come. When the cod emerged from the oven, perfectly flaky and infused with vibrant flavors, it was an instant hit. Since then, it’s been a regular feature on our dinner table, bringing smiles and satisfaction with every bite.
Why This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Will Be Your New Go-To Seafood Dish
- Fresh and vibrant flavors: The combination of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped parsley adds brightness and depth to the mild flavor of the cod, creating a harmonious balance of taste sensations.
- Simple yet sophisticated: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
- Versatile and adaptable: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and spices to suit your taste preferences. You can also swap the cod fillets for other types of white fish, such as haddock or halibut, for a delicious variation.
- Healthy and nutritious: Cod is a lean source of protein that’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 680 grams (1.5 lb) cod fillet pieces (4-6 pieces)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
- For the Lemon Sauce:
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- For Coating:
- 80 grams (2/3 cup) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 3/4 teaspoon sweet Spanish paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter. Set aside.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground coriander, sweet Spanish paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet in the lemon sauce, then coat it evenly with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and sear on each side for about 2 minutes, until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- To the remaining lemon sauce, add the minced garlic and mix well. Drizzle the garlic-infused lemon sauce over the cod fillets.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the baked cod. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes:
- Be careful not to overcook the cod, as it can become dry. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet; it should flake easily and be opaque all the way through.
- Feel free to garnish with additional lemon slices for extra freshness and presentation.
- Serve this baked cod with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
