Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

If you’re looking for a meal that’s fresh, light, and packed with flavor, look no further than Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. This dish is the perfect balance of simplicity and elegance, featuring tender cod fillets baked to perfection with a burst of citrusy lemon and aromatic garlic. It’s quick to prepare, super healthy, and absolutely delicious. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this dish on repeat.

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

This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s a moment. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

• Light and Refreshing: The cod’s delicate, flaky texture combined with the brightness of lemon makes it feel fresh and light—perfect for a satisfying yet healthy dinner.
• Quick and Easy: The prep takes mere minutes, and the oven does the rest of the work. It’s a no-fuss recipe for busy weeknights or when you just want something light but flavorful.
• Flaky, Tender Fish: The cod comes out of the oven perfectly cooked—moist, flaky, and infused with lemony garlic goodness. It’s the kind of dish you can’t stop eating!
• Versatile: Pair it with just about anything—vegetables, rice, a salad, or even roasted potatoes. It’s a super versatile dish that can easily fit into any meal plan.
• Healthy: Cod is low in fat and a great source of protein. This dish is a great choice if you’re looking to eat clean and light without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

To make this Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

For the Cod

• Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen, cod is mild and flaky, making it perfect for baking.
• Olive Oil: Helps keep the fish moist and adds a touch of richness.
• Lemon: Both the zest and juice add a refreshing citrusy kick that complements the cod beautifully.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish that irresistible savory aroma.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal finish to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, because every dish deserves a little seasoning.

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

Instructions

Ready to whip up this easy, flavorful dish? Let’s get started!

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your cod cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden finish.

Prepare the Cod

Place the cod fillets in a baking dish. Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a little more olive oil. Stir it all together, and then pour the mixture evenly over the cod fillets. This is where the magic happens—garlic, lemon, and oil creating the most delicious, aromatic sauce.

Bake the Cod

Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. You’ll know it’s done when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finishing touch. Serve immediately, and enjoy the incredible flavors!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

This Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to round out the meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, asparagus, or zucchini would complement the lightness of the cod perfectly.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve with a side of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the delicious lemony sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette works beautifully with the fresh flavors of the cod.
• Mashed Potatoes: If you’re in the mood for something more filling, creamy mashed potatoes would be a delicious pairing with this fish.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make sure you get the most out of this dish:

• Use Fresh Cod: If possible, use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. However, frozen cod works just fine if you’re in a pinch!
• Don’t Overcook: Cod can become dry if overcooked, so keep an eye on it. The fish should flake easily when done, and a little juice should ooze out.
• Lemon Variations: Experiment with different types of citrus for a twist—try using orange or lime juice and zest for a different flavor profile.
• Add a Little Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon garlic sauce for a subtle kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
A1: Absolutely! You can use other mild, flaky fish like tilapia or haddock. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the fish.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the lemon garlic sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just drizzle it over the cod and bake.

Q3: Can I use frozen cod?
A3: Yes! Frozen cod works perfectly. Just be sure to thaw it completely before baking.

Q4: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.

Q5: How can I make the fish more flavorful?
A5: You can marinate the cod in the lemon garlic mixture for 30 minutes before baking to infuse it with even more flavor.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
A6: Yes, you can! Feel free to add thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

Q7: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A7: Fresh garlic works best for this recipe, but if you don’t have it, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic.

Q8: Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
A8: Fresh lemon juice is always best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work too.

Q9: Can I bake this in a different kind of pan?
A9: Yes, you can bake the cod in any oven-safe dish you have on hand—just make sure it’s large enough to fit all the fillets comfortably.

Q10: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A10: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the lemon garlic sauce to give the cod a little kick.

Conclusion

With its fresh, zesty lemon flavor and the richness of garlic, this Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a simple yet stunning dish that’s sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and bursting with flavor—what more could you ask for? Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy the flaky goodness, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds!

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