Zesty Baked Cod With Lemon And Garlic Recipe For Dinner Magic

Succulent baked cod with its delicate flavor and zesty lemon-garlic notes promises a culinary adventure that will spark your appetite.

Seafood enthusiasts understand the magic of perfectly cooked fish straight from the oven.

Mediterranean techniques bring out incredible depths in this simple yet elegant dish.

Crisp herbs and bright citrus elements dance across tender white fish fillets.

Minimal ingredients combine to create maximum satisfaction for anyone seeking a quick weeknight meal.

Rich protein packed with omega-3 nutrients makes this recipe both delicious and nutritionally smart.

Reasons to Love Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Simplify Seafood Cooking: Master a foolproof method for preparing restaurant-quality cod with minimal kitchen skills, perfect for beginners wanting to explore fish dishes.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Enjoy a nutritious meal that comes together in less than half an hour, making it ideal for busy families seeking healthy dinner solutions.
• Flavor-Packed Nutrition Boost: Combine heart-healthy omega-3 rich cod with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, creating a light yet satisfying protein option that doesn't compromise on taste.
• Minimal Ingredient Magic: Transform just a few simple pantry staples into a delicious, elegant meal that looks and tastes like you spent hours preparing.

Essential Ingredients for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Cod Fillets: Fresh white fish with a mild, delicate flavor that works perfectly for baking.

• Olive Oil: Helps create a smooth, rich coating for the fish.
• Garlic, Lemon Juice: Provide a bright, zesty marinade that complements the cod's subtle taste.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the dish.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve as a fresh garnish that adds extra citrus brightness to the baked cod.

Step-by-Step Guide for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). This perfect temperature will help create a golden, flaky cod that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Create Flavor Magic

• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Fresh lemon juice
• Chopped parsley

Sprinkle salt and pepper over your cod fillets, then generously brush them with the vibrant garlic-lemon mixture. Make sure every inch of the fish gets coated in this delicious blend.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the seasoned cod fillets into a baking dish. Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish becomes wonderfully flaky and turns a beautiful opaque white.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your baked cod with a few fresh lemon wedges on the side. Drizzle any remaining garlic-lemon sauce over the top for an extra burst of tangy goodness. This dish is ready to impress and will make your taste buds dance with delight!

Helpful Tips for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Prevent Overcooking: Check cod's doneness by gently flaking with a fork – fish should be opaque and easily separate into large flakes.
• Customize Salt Levels: Use low-sodium seasonings for heart-healthy diets or adjust salt quantity based on personal preference.
• Maximize Flavor Infusion: Let cod marinate in garlic-lemon mixture for 10-15 minutes before baking to enhance taste absorption.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select fresh cod fillets with firm, translucent flesh and minimal fishy odor for best results.
• Enhance Texture: Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure crisp exterior and prevent steaming.

Delicious Twists on Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Mediterranean Style: Replace cod with sea bass, add oregano, kalamata olives, and sprinkle feta cheese before baking for a Greek-inspired version.
• Herb-Crusted Option: Coat fish with breadcrumbs mixed with fresh dill, thyme, and rosemary for a crunchy herbal exterior.
• Low-Carb Seafood Swap: Substitute cod with halibut or salmon for different protein options while maintaining similar cooking techniques.
• Spicy Cajun Alternative: Blend Cajun seasoning into olive oil mixture, add cayenne pepper, and top with green onions for a zesty New Orleans-style preparation.

Best Pairings for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Pair Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio perfectly complement the delicate cod with its bright, zesty flavors that match the lemon and garlic notes.
• Serve Roasted Asparagus: Light, herbal green vegetable creates a fresh side dish that enhances the fish's subtle taste and provides a complementary texture.
• Recommend Citrus Quinoa Salad: Tangy grain-based side adds brightness and nutrition, echoing the lemon elements in the cod while offering a protein-rich accompaniment.
• Create Garlic Herb Bread: Crusty, aromatic bread helps soak up the delicious garlic-lemon sauce, providing a satisfying carbohydrate element to complete the meal.

How to Store Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Store leftover cod in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring the fish stays fresh and safe to eat.
• Preheat oven to 275F. Place cod in a baking dish, add a splash of water to prevent drying, and cover with foil. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through, maintaining moisture and texture.
• Reheat cod on medium power for 30-45 seconds. Add a small amount of water or lemon juice to keep the fish moist and prevent overcooking.
• Reheat cod only once to maintain quality and prevent potential bacterial growth. Discard any leftovers that smell off or appear discolored.

Common Questions About Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it turns opaque white and easily flakes with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

• Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, thaw frozen cod completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat the fish dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better browning.

• What if I don't have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley works as a substitute, but use about 1/3 the amount of fresh parsley. If you don’t have parsley at all, you can skip it without significantly affecting the dish’s flavor.

Baked Cod With Lemon And Garlic Recipe

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4.6 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic blends Mediterranean flavors into a quick, elegant seafood dinner. Delicate fish fillets kissed with zesty citrus and aromatic garlic promise a restaurant-quality meal you can easily craft at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 cod fillets

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Liquids and Oils:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice

Garnish:

• Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to a high temperature of 400F (200C), ensuring the cooking environment is ready for the delicate fish.
2. Create a vibrant marinade by whisking olive oil with finely minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and aromatic chopped parsley.
3. Generously season cod fillets with salt and pepper, then thoroughly coat each piece with the prepared garlic-lemon mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
4. Carefully arrange the seasoned fillets in a clean baking dish, spreading them evenly to promote uniform cooking.
5. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, monitoring the fish until it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove the baked cod from the oven and let it rest for a brief moment to retain moisture and enhance flavors.
7. Transfer the cooked fillets to serving plates, garnish with fresh lemon wedges, and drizzle any remaining garlic-lemon sauce over the top for an extra burst of zesty flavor.

Notes

• Select fresh, high-quality cod with firm, white flesh for the best flavor and texture.
• Pat the fish dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent excess moisture.
• Adjust baking time based on the thickness of the cod fillets, checking for doneness when fish flakes easily with a fork.
• For a low-carb and gluten-free option, serve the baked cod with roasted vegetables or a light salad instead of traditional sides.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 180 kcal
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg