Baked Cod with Lemon

Baked Cod with Lemon is an easy and delicious choice for any weeknight dinner. This dish features tender fish that is perfectly seasoned with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs. It’s quick to prepare, making it suitable for busy evenings or special occasions. Plus, it’s a healthy, gluten-free meal that your entire family will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cod
• For Garnish
• How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Cod
• Step 3: Make the Marinade
• Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish
• Step 5: Add Paprika and Bake
• Step 6: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon
• Fresh Salads
• Grain-Based Dishes
• Roasted Vegetables
• Bread Options
• How to Perfect Baked Cod with Lemon
• Best Side Dishes for Baked Cod with Lemon
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Baked Cod with Lemon
• Reheating Baked Cod with Lemon
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Baked Cod with Lemon more flavorful?
• Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
• What should I serve with Baked Cod with Lemon?
• Is Baked Cod with Lemon gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can have a delightful meal on the table in no time.
• Healthy Option: This dish is packed with protein and low in calories, making it a great addition to your healthy eating plan.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of lemon and garlic enhances the natural taste of cod, appealing to many palates.
• Gluten-Free: Enjoy this dish without worry if you follow a gluten-free diet.
• Easy Clean-Up: One baking dish means less mess and hassle after enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Baked Cod with Lemon efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here are the items you’ll need to gather before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Cooking brush
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and makes serving easier.
• Mixing Bowl: This is perfect for combining your marinade ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Spoons: Accurately measuring ingredients helps maintain flavor consistency each time you make this dish.
• Cooking Brush: Using a brush allows for even distribution of the marinade over the cod.

Ingredients

For the Cod

• 1½ pounds cod (about 4 fillets), patted dry
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons minced shallot
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika

For Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

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How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the cod cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a small mixing bowl, combine:
1. Lemon juice
2. Lemon zest
3. Olive oil
4. Dried oregano
5. Minced shallot
6. Minced garlic

Mix these ingredients well until combined.

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Brush a small amount of the lemon-olive oil mixture on the bottom of your baking dish. Place the seasoned cod fillets in the dish and generously brush the remaining mixture over each fillet.

Step 5: Add Paprika and Bake

Sprinkle smoked paprika evenly over all fillets. Bake in the preheated oven for about 17 to 20 minutes or until the cod flakes easily when tested with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley and optional lemon slices before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Baked Cod with Lemon!

How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon

Baked Cod with Lemon is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a light and refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing complements the tangy lemon flavor of the cod beautifully.

Grain-Based Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with the fish.
• Couscous: This quick-cooking grain can be flavored with lemon zest and parsley for a delightful accompaniment.

Roasted Vegetables

• Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus adds crunch and a burst of color to your plate.
• Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts enhance the flavors of the baked cod.

Bread Options

• Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread slice can soak up any leftover lemon-olive oil sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for mopping up the delicious juices from the baked cod.

How to Perfect Baked Cod with Lemon

To ensure your Baked Cod with Lemon turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Cod: Fresh fillets will have a better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones.
• Don’t Overcook: Monitor the cooking time closely; remove the cod when it flakes easily.
• Use Quality Olive Oil: A good olive oil enhances the dish’s richness and flavor profile.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your preference.

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Best Side Dishes for Baked Cod with Lemon

Pairing side dishes with your Baked Cod with Lemon can enhance its flavors and create a complete meal. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a healthy crunch alongside the fish.
3. Lemon Rice: Fragrant rice cooked with lemon zest complements the cod’s citrus notes perfectly.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness balances the tangy lemon flavor of the cod.
6. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw brings texture and a tangy contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Baked Cod with Lemon even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the drying step: Not patting the cod dry can lead to a watery dish. Always use paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
• Overseasoning: Adding too much salt or seasoning can overpower the delicate flavor of cod. Stick to the recommended amounts in the recipe for balanced taste.
• Not checking doneness: Cooking times can vary, and not checking if the fish is done can result in undercooked or overcooked cod. Use a fork to see if it flakes easily and ensure an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).
• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using stale herbs or old garlic can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients for the best results.
• Rushing the marinating process: Skipping or shortening marination time can lead to bland fish. Allow at least 10-15 minutes for the flavors to penetrate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Cod with Lemon in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Cod with Lemon

• Wrap individual cod portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months; just make sure it’s well sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Baked Cod with Lemon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place cod on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place cod on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking regularly until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat, add a little olive oil, and warm the cod gently, flipping occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Baked Cod with Lemon more flavorful?

You can enhance your Baked Cod with Lemon by adding herbs like thyme or dill, or by using different citrus fruits such as lime or orange.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just ensure that it is fully thawed before cooking for even seasoning and cooking time.

What should I serve with Baked Cod with Lemon?

Baked Cod pairs well with sides like steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a light salad, making it a versatile meal option.

Is Baked Cod with Lemon gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those following gluten-free diets.

Final Thoughts

Baked Cod with Lemon is not only easy to prepare but also delivers great flavor and healthy benefits. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices!