Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked cod recipe offers a delightful combination of tender, flaky fish infused with a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. The Mediterranean-inspired seasoning, featuring spices like coriander, paprika, and cumin, enhances the cod’s natural mild flavor. With a preparation time of just over 20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a quick yet flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb cod fillet pieces (4–6 pieces)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

Lemon Sauce

• 5 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 5 garlic cloves, minced

For Coating

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 3/4 tsp sweet Spanish paprika

• 3/4 tsp ground cumin

• 3/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a shallow bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter to create the lemon sauce. Set aside.

3. In another shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with the ground coriander, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

4. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet into the lemon sauce, ensuring it’s well-coated, then dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.

5. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the coated cod fillets and sear for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

6. Transfer the seared fillets to a baking dish. Pour the remaining lemon sauce over the fillets and sprinkle with minced garlic.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 5

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy twist.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried oregano or thyme into the lemon sauce for added herbal notes.

• Vegetable Pairing: Serve the cod alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the fish’s texture.

FAQs

1. How do I know when cod is cooked?

Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.

2. Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

3. What can I serve with baked cod?

Pair with steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

4. Can I substitute the cod with another fish?

Yes, haddock or halibut can be used as alternatives.

5. Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

6. How can I make the lemon sauce ahead of time?

Prepare the lemon sauce up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

7. Can I bake the cod without searing it first?

While searing adds flavor and texture, you can bake the cod directly. Just reduce the baking time slightly.

8.How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Add sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish before baking for added flavor and nutrition.

9. Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for heat.

10. Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Fresh parsley is recommended for its vibrant flavor, but dried parsley can be used in a pinch.

Conclusion

This baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal option that brings the bright flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.

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