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Get ready to enjoy a tasty oven-baked lemon cod that's so easy it'll quickly become your go-to weeknight meal. It's light, healthy and packed with natural flavors!
What makes this dish so wonderful?
This dish combines the natural freshness of cod with zesty lemon. It's super easy to make and showcases basic ingredients for a light yet satisfying meal, just right when you need a quick dinner.
Basic must-have components
- Cod: 1 fresh fillet, preferably skinless for a smoother texture.
- Lemon: Fresh, for juice and garnish slices.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin, for flavorful cooking.
- Butter: A small amount for richness.
- Sea salt: To enhance natural flavors.
- Pepper: Freshly ground for subtle taste.
- Oregano: A dash for an herbal note (optional).
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Step-by-step cooking guide
- Heat your oven
- Set it to 200°C (400°F) for even cooking.
- Get your dish ready
- Lightly coat a baking dish with olive oil so the fish won't stick.
- Season the cod
- Put the fillet in the dish, drizzle with juice from half a lemon and some olive oil, then sprinkle salt and pepper to your liking.
- Cook it
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Dish up and enjoy
- Serve while hot with a lemon slice and maybe a sprinkle of oregano to boost the flavor.
Tips for amazing flavor
Throw in some oregano for a Mediterranean twist or serve with grilled veggies for a complete meal. The real trick? Always use fresh lemons for bright flavor and thick cod fillets for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I pick good cod?
- Look for firm, bright white fillets with no intense smell. The flesh should feel springy to the touch.
- → Can this dish be prepped ahead?
- It’s best to serve it fresh. Since cooking takes just a few minutes, it’s ideal to prepare it right before serving to keep it at its best.
- → What’s the best fillet thickness?
- Go for fillets about 2-3 cm thick, adjusting the cooking time based on thickness—thicker fillets need a little more time.
- → What sides go well with this?
- A simple salad, steamed veggies, or plain rice work perfectly. For something heavier, try roasted potatoes.
- → How do I tell if the fish is done?
- The cod is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.