Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes Recipe

Zingy Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes Recipe

Crafting a delightful lemon-herb cod with crispy roasted potatoes promises a culinary adventure that delights your taste buds.

Bright citrus notes dance alongside tender fish and golden potato edges.

Mediterranean influences shine through this simple yet elegant dish.

Delicate cod fillets absorb zesty herb marinades beautifully.

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in creating restaurant-quality meals at home.

Salt, pepper, and careful technique elevate every bite of this seafood classic.

You’ll find this recipe perfect for impressing dinner companions without hours of complicated preparation.

Dive in and savor each carefully crafted moment of cooking magic.

Pro Tips to Get Crispy Roasted Potatoes Perfect Every Time

  • Choose fresh cod for the best flavor and flaky texture.
  • Pat the fish dry before seasoning to ensure crispy edges and better browning.
  • Substitute potatoes with sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.
  • Use gluten-free mustard to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
  • Swap cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that maintains a creamy sauce consistency.

Variations to Experiment With Lemon-Herb Cod and Roasted Potatoes

  • Mediterranean Cod Delight: Replace rosemary with oregano and thyme, add kalamata olives to the sauce, and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving.
  • Spicy Asian Fusion Cod: Swap mustard and cayenne with ginger, soy sauce, and sriracha. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
  • Creamy Herb-Crusted Cod: Mix panko breadcrumbs with fresh dill, parsley, and thyme. Coat cod with herb mixture before baking, creating a crispy herbal crust.
  • Tomato-Basil Cod Bake: Add diced cherry tomatoes to the potato mixture and incorporate fresh basil into the cream sauce. Top with grated parmesan cheese before final baking.

Best Pairings to Enjoy With Lemon-Herb Cod and Potatoes

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a zesty Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay to complement the lemon-herb cod's delicate flavors and cut through the creamy sauce.
  • Match with Buttery Chardonnay: Choose a light, mineral-driven Chardonnay that enhances the fish's richness without overpowering its subtle herb notes.
  • Serve with Sparkling Water: Add a refreshing lemon-infused sparkling water to cleanse the palate and echo the dish's bright citrus undertones.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herb Salad: Create a light side salad with mixed herbs like parsley, dill, and chives to amplify the recipe's herbaceous profile and add textural contrast.

How to Store Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes Properly

  • Store leftover cod and potatoes in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for 1-2 days maximum to maintain food safety and quality.
  • Place fish and potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Spread leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil or stock to prevent drying. Warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through.
  • Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month.

FAQs Regarding Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes

  • What type of fish works best for this recipe?

Cod is ideal, but you can substitute with other white fish like halibut or haddock that have similar mild, flaky textures.

  • How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

The fish should be opaque, easily flake with a fork, and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Overcooking can make it dry and tough.

  • Can I make this recipe without capers?

Yes, capers are optional. If you don’t like them or don’t have them, simply omit from the sauce without changing other ingredients.

  • Is this recipe considered healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is high in protein, low in carbs, and features heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids from the fish, making it a nutritious meal option.

Why Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes Is So Fresh and Flavorful

  • Quick Weeknight Savior: Tackle dinner with minimal prep and maximum flavor, delivering a gourmet meal in under an hour without complicated techniques.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cooking and cleanup by roasting potatoes and cod together in a single baking dish, reducing kitchen mess and saving precious time.
  • Nutrition-Packed Delight: Combine lean protein from cod with hearty potatoes and a creamy herb sauce, creating a balanced meal loaded with essential nutrients and exciting flavors.
  • Adaptable Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe easily scales to accommodate different preferences and dietary needs while maintaining its delicious profile.

Ingredients That Make Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Main Protein:
  • Cod: A delicate white fish that absorbs flavors beautifully and provides lean protein for the dish.
Potato Base:
  • Potatoes: Starchy vegetables that create a crispy and golden accompaniment to the fish when roasted.
Sauce and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Butter, Olive Oil: Rich ingredients that provide smooth texture and help develop deep flavors.
  • Shallot, Garlic: Aromatic vegetables that add depth and complexity to the sauce.
  • Cream, Stock: Smooth liquids that create a rich and velvety sauce base.
  • Rosemary, Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice: Bright herbs and citrus elements that add freshness and complexity to the dish.
  • Mustard, Cayenne: Condiments that provide subtle heat and tangy undertones.
  • Capers: Small briny buds that contribute a sharp, salty accent to the sauce.
Garnish:
  • Parsley: A fresh herb that adds a pop of color and light herbal note to the finished dish.
Seasonings:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile of the cod and potatoes.

How to Prepare Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Dish

Heat the oven to 450F with a rack centered. Lightly coat a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Crisp Potato Goodness

Toss potatoes with:
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Spread potatoes on the baking dish and roast until golden and tender, around 20-25 minutes.

Step 3: Create Luxurious Herb Sauce

In a saucepan, combine:
  • Butter
  • Olive oil

Sauté shallots until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aromatic flavors.

Step 4: Build Flavor-Packed Sauce

Stir into the saucepan:
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken stock
  • Rosemary
  • Lemon zest
  • Lemon juice
  • Dijon mustard
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Capers

Simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and develops a rich consistency, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 5: Bake Cod to Perfection

Season cod with remaining salt. Nestle fish among the roasted potatoes. Pour the herb-infused sauce over the cod. Bake until fish becomes flaky and opaque, around 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Optional: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

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Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes Recipe

Lemon-Herb Cod with Crispy Roasted Potatoes Recipe


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4.9 from 28 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent lemon-herb cod dances with crispy roasted potatoes in this Mediterranean-inspired seafood delight. Quick and elegant, this dish brings coastal flavors directly to your plate, promising a light yet satisfying meal you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound cod fillet, cut into 4 pieces

Vegetables and Starches:

  • 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large shallot, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs, Spices, and Seasonings:

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 2 tablespoons minced flat-leaf parsley

Fats and Liquids:

  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken or fish stock

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 450F, positioning the rack in the center. Coat a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Coat potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast until golden and crisp, approximately 20-25 minutes.
  3. Melt butter and remaining olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté shallots until translucent, about 5 minutes, then add garlic and cook briefly.
  4. Incorporate cream, stock, rosemary, lemon zest, lemon juice, mustard, cayenne, and capers into the saucepan. Simmer and reduce, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens, roughly 5 minutes.
  5. Season cod with remaining salt and arrange on top of roasted potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the herbed cream sauce over the fish.
  6. Bake until cod becomes flaky and opaque, typically 10-15 minutes at 450F.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an elegant touch.

Notes

  • Perfectly crisp potatoes require spacing them out on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting and prevent steaming.
  • Use fresh cod for the best texture and flavor, patting the fish dry before seasoning to help achieve a golden exterior.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper amount for those sensitive to heat, or substitute with a milder spice like paprika for a gentler kick.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace wheat-based mustard with Dijon-style mustard made from gluten-free ingredients and verify stock is gluten-free.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 490 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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