- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the seasonings stick and ensure a nice, flaky texture once baked.
- Season both sides of the cod fillets with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika if you want a slight hint of smokiness and color.
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave in short intervals until fully melted.
- Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and let it cook for about 1 minute to infuse the butter with a subtle garlic flavor.
- Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing until fully combined. This will give the sauce a bright and tangy flavor that complements the cod beautifully.
- Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the top of each fillet, making sure they are well coated.
- Add a few lemon slices on top of the fillets or around the dish for extra citrus flavor and an elegant presentation.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod fillets are opaque and flake easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- For a golden finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. This will give the top of the cod a slight crisp without drying it out.
- Once the cod is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon slices if desired.
- Serve the Lemon Butter Baked Cod alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
- Choose fresh cod: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality cod fillets. Frozen cod can be used, but make sure to fully thaw it and pat it dry before cooking.
- Don’t overcook: Cod can become dry and rubbery if overcooked, so be sure to monitor the baking time closely. The fish should be just opaque in the center and flake easily when tested with a fork.
- Enhance the flavor: If you want to add more depth to the sauce, try incorporating a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the lemon butter mixture.
- Pair with sides: This baked cod pairs wonderfully with sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a simple couscous salad. The mild flavor of cod complements a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile meal option.
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Lemon Butter Baked Cod: A Simple Yet Elegant Dish
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a perfect example of a dish that is both incredibly simple to prepare and delightfully flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant main course for a special occasion, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The flaky texture of the cod combined with the bright, tangy flavor of lemon and the richness of melted butter creates a meal that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Baking cod is one of the easiest ways to cook this delicate fish, ensuring that it stays moist and tender while absorbing the flavors of the seasonings. And because cod is a lean, protein-packed fish, it’s a healthy option that pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or even a simple green salad. The key to this recipe is in the balance of flavors—butter, lemon, and garlic—which complement the mild taste of cod without overpowering it.
A History of Cod in Cooking
Cod has been a staple in coastal cuisines for centuries, dating back to Viking times when it was dried and salted for preservation. Today, cod is one of the most popular types of fish globally due to its mild flavor, firm texture, and versatility in cooking. It’s commonly used in classic dishes like fish and chips but also appears in gourmet recipes like this Lemon Butter Baked Cod.
Lemon and butter have long been popular accompaniments to seafood. The citrus cuts through the richness of the butter, while the butter enhances the natural flavor of the fish. This recipe celebrates this classic pairing, creating a dish that is both familiar and sophisticated.
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Baked Cod
This recipe requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. The simplicity of these ingredients allows the cod’s natural flavor to shine.
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For the Cod:
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
Step-by-Step Instructions
This easy baked cod recipe comes together in just a few steps, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. Follow these instructions to achieve perfectly tender and flavorful cod every time.
1. Prepare the Oven and Cod Fillets
2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
3. Assemble the Dish
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4. Bake the Cod
5. Garnish and Serve
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Health Benefits of Cod
Not only is this Lemon Butter Baked Cod a delicious dish, but it’s also a healthy option packed with protein and essential nutrients. Cod is a lean fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health. Additionally, it’s a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus, all of which contribute to overall well-being.
The use of olive oil and a moderate amount of butter ensures that this recipe stays on the healthier side without sacrificing flavor. The fresh lemon and garlic provide additional health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusion
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is an easy, healthy, and flavorful dish that you can have on the table in under 30 minutes. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a fantastic option for busy weeknights, while its sophisticated flavors make it suitable for special occasions. Whether you’re a seafood lover or looking to add more fish to your diet, this recipe is sure to please.
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