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Lemon Garlic Baked Cod

Lemon Garlic Baked Cod
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This Lemon Garlic Baked Cod recipe is a simple and flavorful dinner option bursting with fresh lemon and aromatic garlic. It delivers tender, flaky cod fillets baked to perfection in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or anytime you desire a healthy, satisfying meal with minimal fuss. The bright citrus notes combined with savory garlic and optional buttery richness make every bite a light yet deeply flavorful home-cooked feast.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed, about 6 ounces each)

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: 4 small pats of butter (about 1 teaspoon each) for extra richness

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  2. Season the Cod: Arrange the cod fillets in the baking dish. Season both sides of each fillet generously with salt and black pepper to build a flavorful base.
  3. Make the Lemon Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil until well combined. This vibrant sauce will infuse the fish with bright, aromatic flavors.
  4. Pour the Sauce and Add Butter: Evenly drizzle the lemon garlic mixture over the cod fillets. Add a small pat of butter on top of each fillet if you prefer a richer, silky texture.
  5. Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout. Be careful not to overcook to preserve moisture.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the fish from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh herb aroma. Serve hot immediately with your preferred sides.

Notes

  • Choose fresh or properly thawed cod to ensure the best texture and flavor.
  • Don’t skip the lemon zest; it brightens the flavor without increasing acidity.
  • Use uniformly thick fillets for even baking and avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist.
  • Mix garlic fresh into the sauce just before baking to maintain its bright and savory character.
  • Let the baked cod rest a few minutes after removing from the oven to allow juices to redistribute for better moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon garlic baked cod, baked cod recipe, healthy fish dinner, quick baked fish, lemon seafood recipe, easy cod recipe

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/lemon-garlic-baked-cod/