Savor the Bright Flavors of Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic!

Photo byangie bright

Baked cod with lemon and garlic is the perfect dish for when you're craving something light, flavorful, and simple to make. This recipe combines the natural mildness of cod with the brightness of lemon and the punch of garlic, creating a balance that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.

The beauty of baked cod lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Cod, known for its firm texture and subtle taste, works as a blank canvas that absorbs the zesty lemon juice, savory garlic, and a hint of spice from paprika and thyme. These ingredients come together to enhance the fish without overpowering its delicate nature.

The lemon and garlic not only add flavor but also provide wonderful aromas that fill your kitchen as the cod bakes. The citrusy notes from the lemon help cut through the richness of the fish, while the garlic adds depth. This makes for a perfectly balanced dish that’s both light and flavorful. Plus, it's a healthier option since it's baked, not fried, and uses heart-healthy olive oil.

Recipe: Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cod from sticking.
2. Make the Garlic Lemon Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. This will form the flavorful sauce that will coat the cod.
3. Prepare the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the garlic lemon mixture generously over the fillets, making sure they’re well coated with the mixture for maximum flavor.
4. Bake the Cod: Bake the cod fillets in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the cod, as it can become dry.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once the cod is done, sprinkle it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side to add even more zesty flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad, making it a versatile meal for any occasion.

Helpful Tips:

• Add Veggies: For a one-pan meal, try adding thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish. They’ll roast alongside the cod and soak up all the delicious lemon and garlic flavors.
• Adjust the Seasoning: If you like a little more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the garlic lemon mixture for a spicy kick.

This baked cod with lemon and garlic is perfect for when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of citrus, garlic, and spices elevates the mild cod into a dish that feels both elegant and homey. It’s a meal you can turn to again and again, whether for a casual dinner or something a bit more special. With such an easy recipe, it's no wonder baked cod with lemon and garlic is a staple in many kitchens!

Here are a few sources where you can find variations of the Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic recipe, as well as helpful tips and modifications:

1. Allrecipes offers a delicious Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod recipe that adds butter to create a rich, luscious flavor. It highlights a simple prep, using common ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and paprika. You can check out the recipe here: Allrecipes - Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod​(Allrecipes).
2. EatingWell features a Lemon-Garlic Baked Cod that's both light and easy, emphasizing a low-calorie, heart-healthy approach. It’s perfect for those following a Mediterranean or low-carb diet. For more details, visit: EatingWell - Lemon-Garlic Baked Cod​(EatingWell).
3. The Mediterranean Dish gives a Mediterranean twist to this recipe, incorporating spices like cumin and paprika to deepen the flavor profile. Learn more about this version at: The Mediterranean Dish - Easy Baked Cod​(The Mediterranean Dish).