Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

If you’re craving something light, zesty, and incredibly satisfying, look no further than Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. This Mediterranean-inspired classic features tender, flaky cod fillets swathed in an aromatic blend of lemon, minced garlic, and fragrant herbs. With just twenty-five minutes from start to finish, this dish offers a quick escape to sun-drenched shores with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a weeknight dinner warrior, you’ll adore the way this recipe brings together fresh, clean ingredients for a meal that feels special but couldn’t be simpler to prepare.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about these ingredients is their humble simplicity. Each item shines in its own right, working together to create a dish that’s vibrant, aromatic, and deliciously balanced. Don’t skip any of the essentials—they’re all key players!

• Cod fillets: The delicate, mild flavor of cod absorbs the bright citrus and savory garlic perfectly; choose fillets that are about 6 ounces each for consistent cooking.
• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the seasonings adhere, keeping everything moist and full-flavored.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves, minced, bring a punchy, aromatic depth—don’t be shy with generous garlic!
• Lemon (zested and juiced): Both the zest and juice provide that bold tang and unmistakable citrus fragrance that’s essential here.
• Parsley (fresh or dried): Fresh parsley gives lively color and herbaceous lift; dried works too in a pinch.
• Paprika: Just a touch gives warmth and a hint of color to the fillets.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of both the fish and the seasonings.
• Black pepper: A subtle hint of pepper keeps things lively without overpowering the delicate fish.
• Lemon slices & fresh parsley (for garnish): For a beautiful, restaurant-worthy finish that adds even more brightness and freshness.

How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to 400°F, which sets the perfect temperature to bake the cod without drying it out. Lightly grease your favorite baking dish or line it with parchment paper—either way, this ensures easy cleanup and keeps the cod fillets from sticking. Consistency is key, so aim to lay the fillets in a single, even layer.

Step 2: Arrange the Cod Fillets

Place those gorgeous cod fillets into your prepared dish, making sure they aren’t crowded. If they’re overlapping, they’ll steam instead of bake, so give each piece a bit of space—think of it as their own little spa treatment.

Step 3: Mix the Flavor-Packed Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is beautifully blended. You’ll notice how the zest perfumes the whole kitchen and the olive oil becomes flecked with vibrant herbs—a sure sign of good things ahead!

Step 4: Coat the Cod

Now, spoon that marvelous marinade evenly over each cod fillet, ensuring every inch is glistening with the garlicky, citrusy mixture. Take a minute to really slather it on—more flavor means more deliciousness in every bite. Feel free to nestle a few thin slices of lemon on top for a little extra punch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The magic happens when the cod turns opaque and flakes effortlessly at the touch of a fork. Resist the urge to overbake; keeping the fish juicy is the secret to the best Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

As soon as your cod is done, scatter some fresh parsley and add crisp lemon slices on top. This finishing touch adds color, fragrance, and a bit of extra citrus zing. Serve while it’s hot and enjoy every garlicky, lemony flake!

How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a wedge or two of lemon make this dish look as inviting as it tastes. For an extra pop, try a dusting of finely grated lemon zest or a few microgreens. These little touches elevate the dinner to restaurant-level elegance without any fuss.

Side Dishes

Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is wonderfully versatile. Pair it with fluffy steamed rice, roasted baby potatoes, or simple sautéed greens like spinach or green beans. Even a crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette works beautifully. The bright flavors of the cod really pop next to earthy, comforting sides.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the cod atop a bed of herbed couscous, or flake the fillets and tuck them into warm pita with a bit of garlic sauce and slaw for a Mediterranean-inspired sandwich. Layering the cod over a vibrant vegetable medley is another eye-catching way to showcase those succulent, lemon-garlic flavors at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic keeps nicely in the refrigerator for up to two days. Simply stash it in an airtight container to seal in freshness. Enjoy it cold flaked over salads, or gently reheat for another quick meal.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze your baked cod, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight, freezer-safe container. Label and date it, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results, as this protects the delicate texture of the fish.

Reheating

To reheat Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, place the fillets on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until just heated through—usually about 10 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but use a lower power setting to avoid drying out the cod.

FAQs

Can I use another type Main Course

Absolutely! Any mild, flaky white fish such as haddock, halibut, or even tilapia makes a wonderful alternative. Just keep an eye on cook time, as some fillets may be thinner or thicker than cod.

How do I know when the cod is done baking?

Your fish is ready when it becomes opaque and flakes easily when gently pressed with a fork. Be careful not to overbake; cod is at its best when it’s still moist and tender.

Is Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic healthy?

Definitely! This dish is naturally low in calories, rich in lean protein, and full of fresh flavors with only a modest amount of olive oil. It fits beautifully into gluten-free and Mediterranean-inspired diets.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

You sure can. Mix the marinade a few hours ahead and keep it chilled for extra convenience. If using fresh garlic, give it a quick stir before using, since the flavors develop even more as it sits.

What’s the best way to prevent the fish from sticking to the pan?

Greasing your baking dish with a little olive oil or lining it with parchment paper does wonders for easy release. Plus, it helps every bit of the garlicky-lemon goodness stay right on the fish!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a dish as vibrant and effortless as Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. Whether you’re cooking dinner for family or treating yourself to a solo night in, this recipe promises a plateful of bright flavors and positive vibes. Give it a try and let the zesty, garlicky aroma fill your kitchen—you just might find it becomes one of your new favorites, too!

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