Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic is a delightful dish that brings the fresh flavors of the sea right to your dinner table. As someone who has always appreciated the simplicity and elegance of seafood, I find that this recipe perfectly captures the essence of a light yet satisfying meal. The combination of tender cod fillets, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic creates a symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and comforting.

This dish has roots in various coastal cuisines, where fish is often celebrated for its health benefits and versatility. People love Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic not only for its incredible taste and flaky texture but also for its convenience. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends while keeping your meal light and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Marinade

1. **Gather Your Ingredients**: Start by gathering all the ingredients listed above. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. I like to have everything prepped and ready to go before I start cooking. 2. **Mix the Marinade**: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. The aroma of the garlic and lemon will already start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s just a hint of what’s to come! 3. **Marinate the Cod**: Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring each fillet is well coated. If you’re using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly. Let the cod marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, an hour is even better. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish beautifully.

Preparing the Baking Dish

4. **Preheat the Oven**: While the cod is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for achieving that perfect flaky texture. 5. **Prepare the Baking Sheet**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This will prevent the fish from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Baking the Cod

6. **Arrange the Cod**: After the cod has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each piece. This allows the heat to circulate evenly around the fish. 7. **Drizzle with Extra Marinade**: If you have any leftover marinade, drizzle it over the top of the cod fillets. This will enhance the flavor and keep the fish moist while it bakes. 8. **Bake the Cod**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them. You want that perfect flaky texture without overcooking.

Garnishing and Serving

9. **Garnish the Cod**: Once the cod is done baking, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. The vibrant green will contrast beautifully with the golden fish. 10. **Serve with Lemon Wedges**: Serve the baked cod immediately with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating elevates the dish to a whole new level. The brightness of the lemon complements the richness of the fish perfectly.

Side Dish Suggestions

While the baked cod is delicious on its own, I love to pair it with some simple sides to create a complete meal. Here are a few suggestions: – **Roasted Vegetables**: Toss your favorite vegetables (like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini) with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven alongside the cod for a colorful and nutritious side. – **Quinoa or Rice**: A fluffy bed of quinoa or rice is perfect for soaking up any extra lemon-garlic goodness from the fish. You can cook it in vegetable or chicken broth for added flavor. – **Simple Salad**: A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch to your meal.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so good!), here’s how to store them: 11. **Cool Down**: Allow the baked cod to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the fish soggy. 12. **Store in an Airtight Container**: Place the cooled cod in an airtight container. It can be stored

Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The tender, flaky cod paired with the zesty lemon and aromatic garlic creates a delightful dish that is not only delicious but also healthy. It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something quick yet impressive to serve to family or friends. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to complement the lightness of the cod. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding herbs like dill or parsley, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You could also swap out the cod for another white fish, such as haddock or tilapia, depending on your preference. I truly encourage you to give this Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

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