Ingredients (With Explanations)
Main Ingredient
- 1½ to 2 pounds cod fillets
Fresh cod is best, but frozen cod that has been fully thawed works well. Fillets should be about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
Lemon Flavor
- 2 lemons
One lemon will be sliced thin, and the other will be juiced. Fresh lemon is important for the best flavor.
Aromatics
- 3 to 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
Adjust the amount depending on how strong you like garlic.
Fat and Moisture
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Using both butter and olive oil gives rich flavor while preventing burning.
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, adds warmth and color)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- Capers for a salty flavor
- Thinly sliced onion or shallots
- Cherry tomatoes
- Fresh dill or basil for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish (glass or ceramic works best)
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional)
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). This temperature allows the cod to cook quickly while staying moist and tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil or butter. This prevents sticking and adds extra flavor to the fish.
Step 3: Dry the Cod
Place the cod fillets on a plate and pat both sides dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is very important because it helps the fish bake properly instead of steaming.
Step 4: Arrange the Fish
Place the cod fillets in the baking dish in a single layer. Leave a little space between each fillet if possible so heat can circulate evenly.
Step 5: Make the Lemon Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine:
- Melted butter
- Olive oil
- Fresh lemon juice
- Minced garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Dried herbs
Whisk everything together until well mixed.
Step 6: Season the Cod
Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over each cod fillet. Make sure the garlic and herbs are spread across the top of the fish for maximum flavor.
Step 7: Add Lemon Slices
Place lemon slices on top of the cod and around the fish in the baking dish. The lemon slices add flavor and help keep the fish moist as it bakes.
Step 8: Optional Covering
For very juicy cod, loosely cover the baking dish with foil.
For lightly crisp edges, bake uncovered.
Step 9: Bake the Cod
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 12 to 18 minutes.
The exact time depends on the thickness of the fillets.
Cod is fully cooked when:
- It flakes easily with a fork
- The flesh is opaque and white
- The internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C)
Do not overcook, as cod can dry out quickly.
Step 10: Rest the Fish
Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist.
Finishing Touches
Sprinkle fresh herbs such as parsley or dill over the fish. Add extra lemon juice if you prefer a brighter flavor. Spoon some of the pan juices over the fish before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Baked Cod pairs well with:
- Rice, quinoa, or couscous
- Roasted or mashed potatoes
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- A simple green salad
- Bread or dinner rolls
