Pin it
Check out this tasty and easy oven-baked cod with bright lemon and herb flavors. This light yet fancy dish works great for quick dinners that still wow your guests.
What makes this dish worth trying?
Lemon garlic cod makes a healthy and yummy weeknight meal option. The fragrant herb butter and zesty lemon notes make this simple yet impressive dish really bring out the mild fish flavor.
Must-have ingredients
- Aneth : 1/8 c. à café, for a gentle aroma.
- Salt : 1/8 c. à café, add more or less to taste.
- Cod fillets : 2 (225 g each), the star of the dish.
- Lemon : 1, sliced for garnish and extra flavor.
- Butter : 2 tbsp, softened to create a smooth, flavorful mix.
- Olive oil : 1 tbsp, to blend with butter and add a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Lemon juice : 1 tsp, for a balanced tangy kick.
- Garlic : 2 cloves, minced for rich flavor.
- Parsley : 1 tbsp, finely chopped for freshness.
- Thyme : 1 tsp, for an herbal touch.
- Paprika : 1/8 tsp, for a subtle warmth.
Cooking your cod step by step
- Heat your oven
- Get your oven hot at 400°F (200°C) so your fish cooks evenly.
- Mix up the herb butter
- Take a bowl and combine softened butter, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, paprika, dill and salt. Stir until everything's well mixed together.
- Get your baking dish ready
- Spread 1-2 teaspoons of your herb butter on the bottom of a baking dish to keep the fish from sticking.
- Place your fish
- Put the cod fillets in the dish and top each with about 1 tablespoon of herb butter. Arrange lemon slices around the fish.
- Bake until done
- Pop it in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Pin it
Tips for amazing cod
For the best flavor, try to get fresh fish and juicy lemons. This dish goes really well with pilaf rice, steamed veggies, or a light green salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I tell if the cod is done?
- Cod is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The flesh should look pearly and pull apart in layers.
- → Can I prepare the herb butter beforehand?
- You can make herbed butter up to 3 days early and store it in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before using.
- → What type of cod should I buy?
- Choose fresh cod fillets that look firm and smell clean. The flesh should be bright white with a shiny surface; avoid any dry or yellowed ones.
- → What goes well as a side dish?
- Steamed veggies, plain rice, or boiled potatoes work great. A crisp green salad is a perfect light pairing too.
- → Can I swap cod for other fish?
- This works nicely with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock. Adjust cooking time if the fillets are thicker or thinner.