Baked Cod with Lemon

This Baked Cod with Lemon is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe shines with its bright flavors and easy preparation. The tender cod fillets are infused with the zesty aroma of lemon, complemented by the richness of olive oil and fragrant garlic. It’s a healthy, gluten-free meal that everyone in your family will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cod
• For Garnish
• How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Cod
• Step 3: Mix the Flavor Base
• Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish
• Step 5: Add Paprika and Bake
• Step 6: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon
• Pair with Fresh Salads
• Include Whole Grains
• Add Seasonal Vegetables
• Garnish Creatively
• How to Perfect Baked Cod with Lemon
• Best Side Dishes for Baked Cod with Lemon
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Baked Cod with Lemon
• Reheating Baked Cod with Lemon
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I know when my Baked Cod with Lemon is done?
• Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
• What can I serve with Baked Cod with Lemon?
• How can I customize my Baked Cod with Lemon?
• Is Baked Cod with Lemon gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a vibrant taste that elevates the cod.
• Healthy Dinner Option: This dish is low in calories and packed with protein, making it a nutritious choice for any diet.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavor of cod makes it appealing to picky eaters while still being satisfying for adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes preparing this Baked Cod with Lemon even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Brush or spoon for glazing
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality dish ensures even cooking and helps retain moisture in the fish.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the flavorful ingredients without making a mess.
• Brush or spoon: Helps evenly distribute the lemon-olive oil mixture over the cod for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Cod

• 1½ pounds cod (about 4 fillets), patted dry
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons minced shallot
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika

For Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)

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How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.

Step 3: Mix the Flavor Base

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Lemon juice
2. Lemon zest
3. Olive oil
4. Dried oregano
5. Minced shallot
6. Minced garlic

Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Brush a small amount of the lemon-olive oil mixture on the bottom of your baking dish. Place the seasoned cod fillets in the dish and generously brush the remaining mixture over them.

Step 5: Add Paprika and Bake

Sprinkle smoked paprika evenly over each fillet. Bake in your preheated oven for about 17 to 20 minutes. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done, and its internal temperature should reach 130°F (54°C).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley and optional lemon slices before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Cod with Lemon!

How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon

Serving Baked Cod with Lemon can elevate your dining experience. Here are a few creative ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the cod nicely.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons enhance the flavors of the lemon and herbs in the baked cod.

Include Whole Grains

• Quinoa: This nutty grain adds a wholesome touch and absorbs the delicious lemony juices from the cod.
• Brown Rice: A hearty side that pairs well with fish, offering additional fiber and nutrients to your meal.

Add Seasonal Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a fresh and crisp contrast to the tender fish.
• Roasted Broccoli: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli is a flavorful addition that matches well with the lemon theme.

Garnish Creatively

• Herb Topping: Sprinkle chopped dill or parsley over the dish for an added burst of freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve extra lemon slices on the side for guests who want an extra kick of citrus flavor.

How to Perfect Baked Cod with Lemon

To achieve perfectly cooked Baked Cod with Lemon, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Generously season your fish with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
• Bold temperature control: Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking.
• Bold freshness: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor; avoid bottled alternatives.
• Bold timing: Keep an eye on cooking time; cod should be flaky but not dry when done.
• Bold resting time: Let the fish rest for a couple of minutes after baking before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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Best Side Dishes for Baked Cod with Lemon

Baked Cod with Lemon pairs beautifully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the zesty fish.
2. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients, balancing out the meal perfectly.
3. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs creates a refreshing side.
4. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy crunch that complements the soft texture of baked cod.
5. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots bring another layer of flavor while being simple to prepare.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil can be an excellent base for the fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baked Cod with Lemon is a simple dish, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the cod: Cooking the fish too long can make it dry. Use a fork to check for flakiness and ensure you remove it from the oven as soon as it reaches 130°F.
• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the cod properly can result in bland flavors. Be generous with salt, pepper, and the lemon-olive oil mixture for a burst of taste.
• Using old ingredients: Freshness matters! Ensure your cod is fresh and that your spices are not expired. Fresh ingredients lead to better flavor.
• Ignoring thickness: Different fillet thicknesses require different cooking times. Always adjust based on how thick your fillets are for even cooking.
• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Always set your oven temperature before placing your cod inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow cooling before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Baked Cod with Lemon

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Baked Cod with Lemon

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my Baked Cod with Lemon is done?

The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before preparing your Baked Cod with Lemon for even cooking.

What can I serve with Baked Cod with Lemon?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, making it versatile for any meal setting.

How can I customize my Baked Cod with Lemon?

Feel free to add different herbs like dill or parsley, or incorporate other citrus fruits such as lime or orange for a twist on flavor.

Is Baked Cod with Lemon gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.

Final Thoughts

Baked Cod with Lemon is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful and healthy. The combination of lemon and garlic enhances the fish beautifully while keeping it moist and tender. You can easily customize this dish by adding various herbs or side dishes according to your preference. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation!

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