Irresistible Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

There we were, sitting around the dinner table, and I announced I was making Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. The sheer excitement that radiated from my family was palpable. You would think I had just promised them a trip to Disneyland instead of a meal! This dish, with its tantalizing aroma wafting through the house, transforms an ordinary evening into a delightful culinary experience. grilled salmon with pesto baked lemon salmon recipe

As the cod bakes in the oven, its flaky texture combined with zesty lemon and rich garlic fills the air with a mouthwatering scent. Memories of family gatherings flood back, where laughter mingled with the fresh flavors of this dish, making it a staple for any special occasion or simple weeknight dinner. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi recipe.

I remember one time when I served this baked cod at a family reunion; everyone was raving about it, and my cousin even asked for seconds—quite a feat considering he usually only has eyes for dessert!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for firm fillets with a clean smell; freshness is key to great flavor.
• Lemon: Choose juicy lemons; their brightness elevates the entire dish.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves work best; they’ll give your cod that aromatic punch.
• Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to your flavor profile.
• Fresh Parsley: Use finely chopped parsley for garnish; it brightens up the dish visually and in taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors without overpowering them.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. cozy chicken dinners.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Cod: Place your fresh cod fillets in the greased baking dish. Make sure they are spaced apart so they cook evenly.

Add Garlic and Lemon Juice: Mince several garlic cloves and sprinkle them over the fish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top; this will infuse delightful flavor as it bakes.

Drizzle Olive Oil: Generously drizzle olive oil over the fillets. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the fish moist while cooking.

Season Generously: Season your cod fillets liberally with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—the seasoning is what brings everything together!

Bake Until Flaky: Pop your cod in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

When you take that first bite of baked cod with lemon and garlic, you’ll experience an explosion of flavors that dances on your palate! The juicy cod paired with zesty lemon makes for an unforgettable meal that’s as easy as pie—or maybe easier since there’s no baking involved! Enjoy this delightful dish on its own or serve it alongside some roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete feast. flavorful chicken salad

Now go ahead, embrace your inner chef, and enjoy every flaky bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by marinating the cod in lemon juice and garlic while preheating the oven. This maximizes flavor absorption before baking, ensuring a delightful experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cod for another white fish, like halibut or tilapia. Adding herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the dish’s flavor profile even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain its flaky texture without drying it out.

Baking this dish always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone raves about the flavors. My cousin once said if she could bottle that lemon-garlic aroma, she’d wear it as perfume!

FAQ

Can I use frozen cod for Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?

Yes, just thaw it completely before marinating and baking.

How long should I bake cod?

Bake cod for 15-20 minutes at 375°F until it flakes easily with a fork.

What sides pair well with Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?

For more inspiration, check out this Roasted Garlic Potatoes Au Gratin recipe.

Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly.

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Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

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• Author: Ava Mack
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a quick and flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal. The flaky cod, infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, creates a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is bound to impress your family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 medium lemons (juiced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Place the cod fillets in the baking dish, spaced apart for even cooking.
3. Sprinkle minced garlic over the fillets, then drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, marinate the cod in lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before baking. - Substitute cod with halibut or tilapia if desired. - Garnish with additional parsley before serving for a fresh touch.