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

Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Dish is a delightful culinary experience that brings together the bright flavors of citrus and the aromatic essence of garlic, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how cod has been a staple in various cultures around the world, particularly in coastal regions where fresh fish is abundant. This dish not only showcases the delicate texture of cod but also highlights the simplicity and elegance of cooking with fresh ingredients.

People love the Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Dish for its incredible taste and ease of preparation. The flaky fish, infused with zesty lemon and savory garlic, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s a healthy option that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

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)
• 1 lemon, sliced (for serving)

Preparing the Marinade

1. **Gather your ingredients**: Start by measuring out all the ingredients listed above. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. I love having everything 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, and dried thyme. Whisk everything together until well blended. The aroma of the garlic and lemon will fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s a delightful scent! 3. **Season 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. I like to gently massage the marinade into the fish to make sure it absorbs all those wonderful flavors. 4. **Marinate**: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and let the cod marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more.

Preparing the Baking Dish

5. **Preheat the oven**: While the cod is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the fish cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color. 6. **Prepare the baking dish**: Take a baking dish (I usually use a 9×13 inch dish) and lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the fish from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Baking the Cod

7. **Arrange the cod**: After marinating, remove the cod from the refrigerator. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are spaced out evenly. If you have any leftover marinade, drizzle it over the top of the fish for extra flavor. 8. **Season with salt and pepper**: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the fillets to taste. I usually go light on the salt since the marinade already has some seasoning, but feel free to adjust according to your preference. 9. **Bake the cod**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them. 10. **Check for doneness**: To ensure the cod is perfectly cooked, I like to use a fork to gently flake the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily and is no longer translucent, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Serving the Dish

11. **Garnish**: Once the cod is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. 12. **Plate the cod**: Using a spatula, carefully transfer the cod fillets to serving plates. I like to serve them with a couple of lemon slices on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. 13. **Pair with sides**: This lemon garlic baked cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I often serve it with steamed vegetables, a light salad, or fluffy rice. You can also add a side of roasted potatoes for a heartier meal.

Tips for Success

14. **Choosing the right cod**: When selecting cod, look for fillets that are firm and have a fresh, mild scent. Avoid any that have a strong fishy odor or are discolored. 15. **Experiment with flavors**: Feel free to customize the marinade to suit your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick, or you can swap out the herbs for your favorites, like dill or basil. 16. **Storage**: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook

Conclusion:

In summary, this Lemon Garlic Baked Cod dish is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic perfectly complements the tender, flaky cod, making it a delightful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can serve it alongside a fresh green salad, fluffy quinoa, or even roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra burst of flavor, or swap out the cod for another white fish like haddock or tilapia. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to make this recipe your own! I can’t wait for you to try this Lemon Garlic Baked Cod dish and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, please share your thoughts and any variations you come up with—I love hearing how you make recipes your own! Happy cooking! Print