Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Best baked cod recipe out there! This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is a delightful dish prepared Mediterranean style. With just a few spices and a mixture of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and plenty of garlic, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, bakes in only 15 minutes, and delivers bold flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be on your table in just 22 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and spices makes every bite burst with flavor.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for casual family dinners or elegant entertaining; it suits any occasion.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh herbs and ingredients elevates the dish to restaurant-quality.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet (or oven-safe pan)
• Shallow bowls for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Excellent for even heat distribution, ensuring perfectly cooked cod with a nice sear.
• Shallow bowls: Ideal for easy dipping and coating of the fish without making a mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Provide accuracy in your ingredients for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1.5 lb Cod fillet pieces, (4-6 pieces)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
– 5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
– 5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp melted butter
– 5 garlic cloves, (minced)
– 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 3/4 tsp sweet Spanish paprika
– 3/4 tsp ground cumin
– 3/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper

How to Make Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that the cod cooks evenly once you place it inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Sauce

In a shallow bowl:
1. Mix together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and melted butter.
2. Set aside without adding the minced garlic yet.

Step 3: Make the Flour Mixture

In another shallow bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, ground coriander, sweet Spanish paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
2. Place this bowl next to your lemon sauce for easy access.

Step 4: Coat the Fish

1. Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels.
2. Dip each piece in the lemon sauce first.
3. Then coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour. Reserve some of the lemon sauce for later use.

Step 5: Sear the Fish

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
2. Add the coated fish fillets to the skillet.
3. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until golden brown but not fully cooked.
4. Remove from heat after searing.

Step 6: Add Garlic to Lemon Sauce

1. To your reserved lemon sauce, add the minced garlic and mix well.
2. Drizzle this mixture over all fish fillets in the skillet.

Step 7: Bake the Cod

1. Place the skillet in your preheated oven.
2. Bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork, about 10 minutes (check earlier if needed).
3. Once done, remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving immediately.

Enjoy your flavorful Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic! This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

How to Serve Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Serving baked cod is a delightful experience, especially when paired with complementary sides and garnishes. Here are some suggestions to enhance your meal.

Fresh Salad

• A vibrant green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the cod.

Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs adds texture and absorbs the flavors from the cod’s lemon and garlic sauce.

Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a colorful and nutritious accompaniment.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon-garlic sauce left on your plate.

Lemon Wedges

• Garnishing with extra lemon wedges adds a fresh burst of citrus flavor for those who enjoy a zesty kick.

How to Perfect Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

To achieve the best results with your baked cod, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Fresh Cod: Freshness is key. Look for bright eyes and firm flesh at the fish market.
• Pat Dry: Ensure the cod fillets are patted dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a better sear.
• Don’t Overcook: Bake until just flaky. Overcooking can lead to dry fish; check it early for perfect results.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add herbs like dill or thyme for an aromatic twist to the classic recipe.
• Use Quality Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor significantly; invest in one you love.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the cod to rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

Pairing your baked cod with the right side dishes elevates your dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumber, and feta cheese offers a hearty yet refreshing side.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a rich contrast to the crispy cod.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus tossed in olive oil provides a crisp, vibrant color on your plate.
4. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs captures Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
5. Lemon Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini sautéed in lemon juice creates a low-carb alternative that complements the dish.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with herb butter offers delightful sweetness alongside savory baked cod.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cod may seem simple, but there are common errors that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the drying step: Not patting the fish dry can prevent a nice sear and make it harder for the coating to stick. Always dry your cod fillets with paper towels before cooking.

• Overcooking the fish: Cooking cod too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim for 10 minutes in the oven, but check for flakiness earlier to ensure perfect doneness.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Using inferior olive oil or old spices can diminish flavor. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best taste in your baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic.

• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning fish can result in bland flavors. Make sure to follow the recipe closely and consider adjusting spice levels to suit your palate.

• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can cause uneven cooking. Preheat your oven thoroughly to 400 degrees F before placing the cod inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Baked cod can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just label with date and contents.

Reheating Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

• Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a bit of oil, and gently warm each side of the fish until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious dish:

What type of cod is best for this recipe?

Fresh or frozen Atlantic or Pacific cod works well. If using frozen, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.

Can I substitute other fish?

Yes! While this is a baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic, you can use haddock or tilapia as alternatives.

How do I know when my cod is done?

Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145 degrees F.

What sides pair well with baked cod?

Consider serving with roasted vegetables, quinoa salad, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time but bake just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

This baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic is not only quick but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!