If you’re searching for a dinner that checks all the boxes for flavor, health, and simplicity, look no further than Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. This dish is light, bright, and full of Mediterranean charm, with tender, flaky cod fillets bathed in a vibrant lemon-garlic marinade. In just 25 minutes, you can have a show-stopping main course that will make family dinners and weeknight meals something to look forward to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is how it lets each wholesome ingredient shine. Every component serves a real purpose, from adding zest to lending juiciness and boosting aroma. Get ready to fall in love with how easy it is to create incredible flavors using everyday staples!
- Cod fillets: Choose firm, thick fillets for the best texture and gentle, mild taste that pairs perfectly with citrus.
- Olive oil: This heart-healthy fat helps keep the fish moist and adds a subtle, fruity richness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the cod with a savory, aromatic kick—don’t skimp!
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for the brightest, most vibrant flavor—bottled lemon just won’t compare.
- Lemon zest: Adds sunny citrus essence and a pop of color that instantly lifts the whole dish.
- Salt: Brings out the natural sweetness of the cod and enhances every other ingredient.
- Black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and depth without overpowering the light flavors.
- Paprika: Just a pinch lends a hint of smokiness and beautiful color to the finished fillets.
- Fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, herbal finish and a splash of vibrant green—so inviting!
- Lemon slices: The classic garnish for a reason; they make each serving look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your fish is ready to bake. Lightly grease a baking dish—just enough so nothing sticks but your cod still gets a touch of color and stays super tender.
Step 2: Pat the Cod Fillets Dry
Using paper towels, gently blot each cod fillet dry. This may seem like a small detail, but removing excess moisture is a chef’s trick for helping the fish bake up beautifully and soak up all that luscious marinade you’re about to add.
Step 3: Whisk the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, bright lemon zest, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika. Give it all a vigorous whisk to marry the flavors—the result is a marinade bursting with zesty, garlicky goodness.
Step 4: Coat the Cod
Lay your cod fillets in the prepared baking dish and pour the marinade evenly over the top. Use a spoon or a brush to ensure every inch of fish gets a little love. Let those lemon and garlic flavors really sink in for a few moments while the oven finishes preheating.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on thickness. The fillets are done when opaque and flake easily with a fork—so keep an eye out, since overcooking can make the fish dry. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Serve
As soon as your cod emerges from the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Finish with lemon slices to add brightness to every serving. Move quickly, because this dish is best enjoyed hot out of the oven.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or even basil can bring out the herbal notes of Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. Lemon slices or wedges add an extra shot of citrus edge right before serving—plus, they make the plate absolutely gorgeous. For a little Mediterranean drama, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil never hurts!
Side Dishes
This light main pairs beautifully with so many simple sides. Fluffy rice, roasted potatoes, or a warm loaf of crusty bread are traditional favorites. If you’re leaning lighter, go for roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a crisp green salad dressed in just a hint of vinaigrette. The mild flavors of the cod really allow your sides to shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn a casual meal into a dinner party by plating the Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic atop a bed of vibrant Mediterranean couscous, or serve each fillet on individual parchment packets for a touch of elegance. For a playful weeknight twist, tuck the fish and its juices into toasted sandwich rolls with fresh greens for a zesty fish sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic keeps surprisingly well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store each fillet in an airtight container and be sure to spoon a bit of the pan juices over the top to keep it moist. When you’re ready for another meal, the flavors will have mellowed and deepened even more.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your cod for later, let the fillets cool completely before wrapping each one individually and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Label and freeze for up to 2 months for best flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for a gentle defrost that preserves texture.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through—about 10 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but does risk drying the fish; a tablespoon of water or a squeeze of lemon over the fillets will help keep them tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before marinating to prevent extra liquid from making the dish watery. Frozen cod is just as delicious as fresh when making Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic.
Is this recipe suitable for other types of white fish?
Yes, you can easily swap cod for haddock, halibut, or even tilapia. The lemon and garlic flavors pair beautifully with most mild white fish, so feel free to use what’s freshest or on hand.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely! Mix the marinade up to a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply assemble and bake your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic as usual.
Is Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic healthy?
It certainly is. This dish is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, and packed with lean protein and heart-healthy fats, making it a fantastic option for a wholesome, nutritious meal.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
The fillets are ready when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork—usually at around 12 to 15 minutes, depending on their size and your oven. Avoid overbaking to keep your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic proves that weeknight dinners don’t have to be complicated to be absolutely delightful. With a handful of fresh ingredients and just a few simple steps, you’ll be amazed at the restaurant-quality meal you can create right at home. Give it a try soon—your taste buds (and your dinner table) will thank you!
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Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful and easy-to-make recipe for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. This dish features tender cod fillets flavored with a zesty combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, baked to perfection. A light and healthy meal that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Cod Fillets:
- 4 cod fillets (5–6 oz each)
Seasoning:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them in the baking dish.
- Make the seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and paprika. Pour the mixture evenly over the cod fillets, using a spoon or brush to coat the fish thoroughly.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.
- Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon slices for garnish.
Notes
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a green salad for a light and healthy meal.
- This recipe works well with other white fish like haddock or halibut.
- To add a buttery finish, drizzle with a bit of melted butter before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
