Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a simple, flavorful seafood dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The cod fillets are seasoned with a blend of garlic, lemon zest, paprika, and oregano, then baked to tender perfection and topped with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Seasoning & Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Dry and Arrange the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove any moisture, then place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, sea salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano to create a flavorful marinade.
- Brush Seasoning onto Cod: Evenly brush the seasoned olive oil mixture over the top of each cod fillet, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Add Butter and Lemon Slices: Drizzle the melted unsalted butter over the fillets, then top each fillet with lemon slices for a fresh citrus aroma.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for color and herbaceous notes, and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Ensure the cod fillets are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Use fresh lemon for the best citrus flavor; zest before slicing the lemon.
- Don’t overbake the cod to keep it moist and flaky.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
