Zesty Baked Cod With Lemon And Garlic Recipe: A Fresh Delight

Succulent baked cod with lemon and garlic can turn an ordinary dinner into a Mediterranean coastal adventure.

Fragrant herbs and zesty citrus dance across delicate fish fillets, creating magic in your kitchen.

Skilled home cooks appreciate simple ingredients that deliver maximum flavor without complicated techniques.

Fresh catch meets classic seasoning in this straightforward recipe that promises restaurant-quality results.

Minimal preparation ensures you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying a delightful meal.

Crisp, light textures and bright flavors make this dish perfect for health-conscious individuals seeking quick and nutritious options.

Come explore how a few quality ingredients can elevate your seafood cooking skills and impress everyone at the table.

Why Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Is So Flavorful

• Simplify Seafood Cooking: Perfectly bake cod with minimal kitchen skills, making it ideal for beginners wanting to explore fish preparation.
• Healthy Protein Powerhouse: Low-calorie, high-protein dish packed with nutrients, supporting wellness goals without sacrificing flavor.
• Quick Weeknight Wonder: Minimal ingredients and short cooking time transform dinner into a stress-free, delicious meal that satisfies hunger fast.
• Fresh Flavor Explosion: Bright lemon and garlic create a zesty, aromatic experience that elevates simple cod into a restaurant-quality dinner.

Ingredients for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Cod Fillets: Fresh, white fish with a mild, delicate flavor that easily absorbs other seasonings.

• Garlic, Parsley: Fresh herbs and spices that add depth and brightness to the fish's flavor profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the cod.

• Olive Oil: Helps to keep the fish moist and provides a smooth, rich coating.
• Lemon: Adds a zesty, citrusy brightness that complements the mild fish and cuts through its richness.

Instructions for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Warm up the oven to 375°F. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Season The Fish

• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Fresh lemon slices
• Chopped parsley
• Salt
• Black pepper

Ensure each fillet is evenly covered with seasonings for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Cook the cod for 12-15 minutes. Check doneness by gently pressing with a fork – the fish should easily flake apart and appear opaque white throughout.

Step 4: Garnish And Serve

Transfer the beautifully cooked cod to serving plates. Accompany with fresh lemon wedges on the side. The bright citrus will enhance the delicate fish flavor and add a zesty touch to each bite.

Pro Tips for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Prevent Overcooking: Check fish at 12 minutes by gently pressing with a fork – if it flakes easily and looks opaque, remove immediately to keep it tender and moist.
• Choose Fresh Cod: Select bright white, firm fillets without discoloration or strong fishy smell for best flavor and texture.
• Elevate Flavor Quickly: Add fresh herbs like dill or thyme alongside parsley to create deeper, more complex taste profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions, particularly checking seasoning blends.
• Low-Carb Friendly: Pair with roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice to maintain low-carbohydrate meal requirements.

Variation Ideas for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Mediterranean Herb Cod: Replace parsley with a blend of fresh oregano, thyme, and rosemary for a robust Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Spicy Cajun Cod: Swap salt and pepper with Cajun seasoning and add red pepper flakes for a zesty, bold kick.
• Gluten-Free Herb Crust: Coat cod with almond flour and herbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs for a low-carb, gluten-free option.
• Asian-Inspired Cod: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil instead of lemon, creating a savory Asian-style fish dish with umami undertones.

Pairing Suggestions for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the delicate cod's light flavor and cuts through the garlic's richness.
• Create Mediterranean Side Salad: Toss together cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese with a lemon-olive oil dressing to echo the fish's bright, fresh notes.
• Match with Herbed Quinoa: Cook quinoa with parsley and lemon zest to provide a protein-packed, herbaceous accompaniment that enhances the cod's delicate texture.
• Serve with Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus spears with olive oil and garlic, roasting until slightly crisp to create a complementary vegetable side that mirrors the fish's seasoning.

Storage Advice for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Store leftover cod in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the fish remains tightly sealed to prevent moisture loss.
• Warm individual portions for 30-45 seconds on medium power. Add a splash of water or lemon juice to prevent drying out, and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Preheat oven to 275F, place cod in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm for 10-12 minutes. Drizzle with a little olive oil to help maintain tenderness and prevent the fish from becoming tough.
• Wrap cod portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.

FAQs About Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Is cod a healthy fish to eat?

Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, and selenium, making it a nutritious choice for a balanced diet.

• How do I know when cod is fully cooked?

The fish is done when it turns opaque white and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked through.

• Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture.

• What herbs work well with cod besides parsley?

Dill, thyme, and basil are fantastic alternatives that complement the delicate flavor of cod and enhance its taste profile.

Baked Cod With Lemon And Garlic Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 17-20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Succulent baked cod with lemon and garlic brings Mediterranean coastal flavors to your dinner table. Crisp herbed crust and zesty citrus notes elevate this simple seafood classic, promising restaurant-quality dining right at home.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 4 cod fillets

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Citrus and Garnish:

• 1 lemon, sliced

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Position oven rack in the center and preheat to 375F (190C), preparing a parchment-lined baking sheet for optimal fish preparation.
2. Carefully arrange cod fillets on the prepared sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping for even cooking.
3. Generously drizzle olive oil across the fish surface, creating a light protective coating.
4. Distribute minced garlic evenly over the fillets, allowing the aromatic herb to infuse into the delicate fish.
5. Strategically place thin lemon slices across the cod, enhancing flavor and providing citrusy brightness.
6. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the fish, adding a vibrant herbal note and visual appeal.
7. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to complement the seafood’s natural taste.
8. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes until fish becomes opaque and easily separates with a gentle fork twist.
9. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to settle and fish to maintain moisture.
10. Garnish with additional fresh lemon wedges for guests to adjust citrus intensity according to preference.

Notes

• Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your cod fillets, thinner pieces might need less time to prevent overcooking.
• Use fresh lemon zest for an extra burst of citrusy flavor that enhances the fish’s delicate taste.
• Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a crisp exterior and better browning.
• For a gluten-free option, confirm all ingredients are certified gluten-free and avoid cross-contamination during preparation.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 180 kcal
• Sugar: 0.5 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6.3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 0.2 g
• Protein: 23 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg