Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a culinary hug for your taste buds. Imagine flaky fish kissed by zesty lemon and infused with aromatic garlic – it’s practically a party on your plate. The moment you pop this dish in the oven, your kitchen transforms into a fragrant haven that beckons everyone to gather around the table in eager anticipation.
This recipe has a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it for my family; everyone was fighting over who got the last piece! It’s perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests at a fancy soirée. Trust me, this dish promises an explosion of flavor that’ll have you dreaming about it long after the plates are cleared.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will wow your taste buds
- The vibrant presentation makes it a showstopper at any meal
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair perfectly with any side dish you have on hand
- Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike!
I once served this dish during a family gathering, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen works well; just ensure they are thick enough for baking.
- Fresh Lemons: Brighten up your dish using juicy lemons; zest adds extra flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic for the best aroma; minced finely will enhance the flavor.
- Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil enhances richness while helping the fish cook evenly.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brightens up both the plate and flavor profile.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate the overall taste; adjust to personal preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking right from the start.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. You want your fish to slide out effortlessly when done.
Season the Cod Fillets: Place your cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle them generously with olive oil before sprinkling salt and pepper to taste.
Add Garlic and Lemon Zest: Mince your fresh garlic cloves and scatter them over the fish along with zesty lemon peel. This combo creates mouthwatering aromas as they bake.
Squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze half of a lemon over each fillet for a bright burst of flavor. The acidity pairs beautifully with the richness of the fish.
Bake Until Flaky: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns opaque!
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic! It’s not just food; it’s an experience that will make you feel like a culinary genius in your own kitchen! Serve hot alongside a light salad or some roasted veggies, and watch as everyone asks for seconds!
You Must Know
- This recipe for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is not just delicious; it’s a healthy dinner option that requires minimal effort
- The zesty aroma fills your kitchen, making it irresistible
- Plus, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats, prepare the cod by seasoning it with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Bake for 20 minutes until the fish flakes easily, ensuring perfectly cooked cod each time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cod for other white fish like tilapia or haddock. Try adding capers or olives for a briny twist, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you crave a little heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place the cod in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to preserve its tenderness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor
- Always pat the fish dry before seasoning to help flavors stick better
- Keep an eye on cooking time as overcooked fish can become dry and tough
When I first made this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic dish, my grandma called me to inquire about my “culinary genius.” Turns out, she just wanted the recipe to impress her friends!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod instead of fresh?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before baking for even cooking.
What sides pair well with Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?
Try serving it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for balance.
How do I know when the cod is done?
The cod should flake easily when tested with a fork—perfectly cooked every time!
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a zesty, flavorful dish that transforms simple cod fillets into a delightful meal, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
- Cod fillets
- Fresh lemons
- Garlic cloves
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place cod fillets in the dish, drizzling with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Mince garlic and sprinkle over the fish along with lemon zest.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each fillet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until fish flakes easily.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
