Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Hey there, friend! Let me tell you about a dish that’s about to become your go-to for quick, delicious meals. This Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a total game-changer! Picture this: delicate, flaky cod that’s infused with the bright, zesty tang of lemon and a savory kiss of garlic. It’s light but flavorful, and the best part? It’s ready in just about 20 minutes! Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with this simple yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Why You’ll Love Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

This recipe isn’t just about throwing ingredients together—it’s about creating something simple yet magical that everyone will adore. Here’s why this one’s a keeper:

Versatile: Perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want something quick and healthy, or a light and flavorful dish for a weekend gathering. It’s adaptable, too—whether you’re serving it with a side of veggies or piling it onto a bed of rice, it’ll shine.

Budget-Friendly: Fresh fish can sometimes be pricey, but this cod is an affordable option that delivers tons of flavor without breaking the bank. Plus, the ingredients are all pantry staples you probably already have!

Quick and Easy: If you’re someone who’s a little intimidated by cooking fish, this recipe is perfect for you. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in no time.

Customizable: Love extra garlic? Go ahead and throw in a few more cloves. Craving a little heat? Add some red pepper flakes for a zesty kick. This recipe is all about making it your own.

Crowd-Pleasing: Light yet satisfying, this dish is perfect for a wide range of tastes. Even if you’re feeding picky eaters, the mild flavor of cod is a crowd favorite. It’s fresh, light, and packed with flavor that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients in Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Here’s the magic of this dish—it’s made with just a few ingredients that you likely already have on hand, but they come together to create something truly special. Let’s break it down:

• Cod Fillets: The star of the show. Cod is flaky, mild, and tender, making it the perfect canvas for bright lemon and savory garlic.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon zest and juice add that refreshing, tangy burst of flavor. It complements the cod so beautifully and helps keep the fish moist while baking.
• Garlic: Ah, garlic—the fragrant, savory punch that brings everything together. It infuses the cod with rich, comforting flavor.
• Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps keep the fish from drying out while it bakes. Plus, it adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley on top right before serving brings color and freshness to the dish. Plus, it adds a little herbal zing that’s just perfect.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the other flavors shine. You can always adjust this to your taste.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven: First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod will bake perfectly and quickly, so it stays tender and moist.

Prepare the Cod: Lay the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Drizzle a little olive oil over the fillets and season generously with salt and pepper.

Add the Lemon & Garlic: Zest the lemon and sprinkle the zest over the fish. Then, squeeze the juice of the lemon over the fillets, making sure to get that refreshing citrusy goodness all over. Next, finely chop or mince the garlic and sprinkle it evenly over the cod.

Bake to Perfection: Pop the cod into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The fish should be tender and cooked through—no need to overcook it.

Finishing Touches: Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh finish. You can even drizzle a little extra olive oil or more lemon juice for that extra burst of flavor.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s alongside some roasted veggies, a salad, or a scoop of rice, this cod is the perfect main dish to accompany your favorite sides.

How to Serve Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Now that you’ve got this flaky, flavorful cod ready to go, here are some ideas for the perfect accompaniments:

• Light Salad: Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad, like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. The bright flavors will complement the cod beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or carrots would be a great way to add some color and nutrients to your meal. Their sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy fish.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all those yummy lemon-garlic juices. Perfect for a filling, balanced meal.
• Crusty Bread: For those who love to mop up their plate, serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to complete the meal.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: If you’re really pressed for time, you can prep the cod and store it in the fridge with the lemon, garlic, and olive oil overnight. Then, just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
• Spice It Up: Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat and extra depth of flavor.
• Dietary Adjustments: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made dairy-free if you use olive oil instead of butter.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cod is great for leftovers, but be sure to reheat it gently to keep it from drying out.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of fish?
A1: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cod, you can substitute it with other mild white fish like tilapia, haddock, or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: You can prep the cod in advance, but I recommend baking it fresh for the best texture. If you must make it ahead, bake and store in the fridge, then reheat gently.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying out the fish.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: While the fish may lose some of its texture when frozen, you can freeze the cooked cod for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat the cod gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Be careful not to overcook it.

Conclusion

There you have it—Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is your new go-to weeknight dinner. It’s quick, delicious, and feels fancy enough for any occasion. So, grab that cod, squeeze some fresh lemon, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s bursting with flavor! You’ll love it—promise!

Print