Baked Cod with herbs and lemon
Baked Cod with herbs and lemon is a light, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s simple to prepare but full of bright, zesty flavors. The tender, flaky cod fillets are enhanced by fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of citrus from the lemon. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a burst of freshness without being overly complicated.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray.
Prepare the Cod:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Set aside.
Make the Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and dill. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix until well combined.
Season the Fish:
Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the herb and lemon mixture over the top of each fillet, making sure the cod is well-coated. You can also add a few lemon slices on top or around the fish for extra flavor.
Bake the Cod:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and more lemon slices if desired. Serve hot with a side of roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray.
Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Set aside.
Make the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, and dill. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix until well combined.
Season the Fish: Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the herb and lemon mixture over the top of each fillet, making sure the cod is well-coated. You can also add a few lemon slices on top or around the fish for extra flavor.
Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and more lemon slices if desired. Serve hot with a side of roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- To add extra richness, drizzle a little melted butter over the cod before baking.
- For a more intense lemon flavor, you can marinate the cod in the herb mixture for about 30 minutes before baking.
- This recipe works well with other types of white fish, such as haddock or tilapia.
Enjoy your Baked Cod with Herbs and Lemon for a delicious and nutritious meal!
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