Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

This Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a fantastic dish for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this recipe delivers tender, flaky fish infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with vegetables or a fresh salad, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of lemon and garlic adds a refreshing taste.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve with veggies, rice, or a light salad to suit your preference.
• Simple Cooking Method: Baking makes this recipe easy for beginners to master.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and allows the cod to absorb flavors from the lemon slices.
• Whisk: This tool helps blend all the marinade ingredients seamlessly for maximum flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing lemons easier, ensuring you get the best juice and zest.

Ingredients

For the Cod

• 1 lb cod fillet (fresh or thawed from frozen)
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• ½ lemon, juiced + zest
• 1 tbsp garlic paste (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning (like Lawry’s or Goya)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Seafood seasoning (optional)
• Lemon slices (for baking)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Position the oven rack in the top third to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Line a baking dish with lemon slices. This not only infuses flavor but also prevents sticking.

Step 3: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice & zest, garlic paste (or minced garlic), chopped parsley, all-purpose seasoning, smoked paprika, and kosher salt until well combined.

Step 4: Arrange the Cod

Place the cod fillet on top of the lemon slices in your prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Coat the Fish

Pour the marinade over the fish. Use a brush or spoon to coat it evenly for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 6: Bake the Cod

Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes. The fish should flake easily when done.

Step 7: Broil for Crispiness

For added texture, broil the cod for an additional 2 minutes until it’s slightly crispy on top.

Step 8: Serve Your Dish

Pair your baked cod with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Step 9: Customize Your Recipe

Feel free to substitute halibut or tilapia if you prefer different types of fish. Adjust seasonings according to your taste; add red pepper flakes if you like some heat!

Enjoy your delicious Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic!

How to Serve Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Serving your Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your guests or make a weeknight dinner special.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing side.
• Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and red onion for a Mediterranean touch.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Seasoned Asparagus: Roast asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil and lemon for a bright flavor.
• Mediterranean Veggies: Mix zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant with herbs for a colorful platter.

On a Bed of Grains

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with garlic and herbs complements the cod’s flavors perfectly.
• Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with parsley, lemon juice, and diced vegetables adds texture.

Paired with Rice Dishes

• Lemon Herb Rice: Flavored rice cooked in broth and tossed with fresh herbs enhances the meal.
• Wild Rice Medley: A mix of wild rice varieties for added earthy tones that pair well with the fish.

How to Perfect Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

To achieve the best results when making your Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning choices: Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill to bring out more flavor in the dish.
• Bold cooking time awareness: Keep an eye on the cod while baking; it should flake easily but not dry out.
• Bold temperature checks: Use a meat thermometer; cod is done at 145°F for optimal texture and safety.
• Bold ingredient swaps: Feel free to substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus twist.
• Bold marinating time: Letting the cod sit in the marinade for 15-30 minutes before baking enhances flavor absorption.
• Bold finishing touches: Drizzle extra olive oil or fresh lemon juice right before serving for added zest.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

Choosing the right side dishes can complement your Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic beautifully. Here’s a list of fantastic options that pair well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting match.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
3. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A simple quinoa salad tossed in herbs brings freshness to the plate.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast to the savory fish.
5. Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry: A low-carb option that’s full of veggies makes for a healthy choice alongside cod.
6. Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables offers a hearty yet fresh accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Overcooking the fish: Baked cod should flake easily. To avoid overcooking, check it at the 18-minute mark. Fish cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it!

• Skipping the marinade: The marinade is key for flavor. Don’t rush this step; allow the cod to soak in the lemon and garlic mixture for at least 10 minutes before baking.

• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon and parsley enhance the taste. Dried herbs won’t give you the same vibrant flavors, so opt for fresh when possible.

• Ignoring oven placement: Positioning matters! Baking in the top third of your oven allows for even cooking. If you place it too low, you might not get that nice golden top.

• Using a dull knife: A sharp knife makes cleaning and portioning easier. Use a sharp knife to cut through the cod cleanly without tearing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Easy Baked Cod in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Frozen cod is best used within 2-3 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cod on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent drying out.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil, then cook each side of the cod for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sides go well with Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic?

Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing meal. Rice or quinoa also complements the fish nicely.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw your cod completely before marinating and baking it. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.

How do I know when my baked cod is done?

The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Keep an eye on it as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven.

What if I don’t have garlic paste?

You can substitute with minced garlic instead. Two cloves should do the trick! Adjust based on your personal taste preference.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic recipe is not only quick but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its versatility, feel free to customize it by adding different herbs or spices according to your tastes. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!