Zesty Lemon Garlic Baked Cod

Zesty Lemon Garlic Baked Cod instantly lifts dreary weeknights with bright flavors and effortless preparation. The tender cod soaks up a punchy marinade of lemon garlic and herbs producing a dish that feels restaurant worthy but is easy enough for any home cook craving a fresh healthy meal.

I first whipped this up when my herb garden needed taming and now it is my go to for guests who want something lighter but deeply satisfying. Even my non fish loving friends admit they love this one for its zingy lemon and fragrant garlic.

Ingredients

• Fresh cod fillets: Choose fillets that appear translucent moist and mild smelling for best results
• Olive oil: Provides moisture and lends a lush mouthfeel Always use extra virgin for the richest flavor
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses every bite with assertive savory notes
• Lemon zest and juice: Delivers lively acidity while brightening the taste A fresh unwaxed lemon gives you the best zest
• Dried oregano: Adds earthy herbal undertones Go for the freshest dried herbs possible for best aroma
• Dried thyme: Brings a subtle woodsy note that pairs well with the cod
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Key for seasoning Use flaky sea salt or kosher salt and grind your pepper for fresher aroma
• Fresh parsley: Sprinkled just before serving for freshness and a hint of color Pick leaves that are vibrantly green and not wilted
• Lemon slices: Served alongside for even more punch and a pretty presentation Opt for ripe lemons that yield slightly under gentle squeeze

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius so it is hot and ready for the fish. This ensures the cod cooks evenly and remains juicy.

Prepare the Marinade:

In a small bowl combine olive oil minced garlic lemon zest and juice dried oregano thyme a generous sprinkle of salt and freshly cracked pepper. Stir until the mixture looks creamy and the zest is evenly distributed. The infusion really penetrates the fillets.

Marinate the Cod:

Set the cod fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over top. Gently turn the cod so every piece is coated in the fragrant mixture. Let it rest for at least fifteen minutes up to one hour in the fridge for even more flavor.

Arrange in Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil. Lay the marinated cod fillets in the dish skin side down if your fillets have skin and pour any leftover marinade on top so nothing goes to waste.

Bake:

Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about twelve to fifteen minutes. The cod should flake easily when pressed with a fork and look opaque from edge to center. Watch closely as overcooked fish dries out quickly.

Garnish and Serve:

Once baked let the cod rest for a minute then shower with chopped fresh parsley and add lemon slices for extra sparkle on the plate. Serve immediately while warm.

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The lemon really wakes up the fish without overpowering it and I always reach for the most fragrant lemons possible Since my childhood lemon trees at my kitchen window always signaled a weeknight fish dinner with family gathered around.

Storage Tips

Any leftover cod holds well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days To maintain moisture reheat gently in the oven covered with foil Sprinkle with a splash of water or extra lemon juice before reheating to help prevent dryness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find cod try similar firm white fish such as haddock pollock or halibut Each soaks up the marinade well You can swap dried thyme for Italian seasoning or fresh dill in small amounts Use lime zest and juice for a different citrus twist.

Serving Suggestions

This baked cod loves a bed of fluffy rice herbed couscous or even roasted potatoes For the vegetable side a crisp salad or lightly sautéed green beans pairs beautifully Garnish with extra lemon wedges and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for finishing flair.

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Baked cod with lemon and herbs has deep Mediterranean roots and my family remembers enjoying it in seaside tavernas The aroma of garlic and lemon straight from the oven signals a meal worth gathering for.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is fully cooked when it turns opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork. This typically takes 12-15 minutes in a 400°F oven, though cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your fillets.

→ Can I use frozen cod for this dish?

Yes, frozen cod works well, but ensure it's completely thawed and patted dry before marinating. This prevents excess water from diluting the flavors and helps the fish cook evenly.

→ What side dishes pair well with this lemon garlic cod?

This cod pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, a light salad, or whole grains like quinoa or couscous. The bright flavors also complement Mediterranean sides like Greek salad or tabbouleh.

→ Can I substitute other fish for cod?

Absolutely! This preparation works well with other white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

→ How long can I marinate the fish?

For best results, marinate the cod for at least 15 minutes at room temperature or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator. Unlike meat, fish shouldn't be marinated too long (especially with citrus) as the acids can begin to 'cook' the protein.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Fish dishes are best served fresh, but you can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, then apply it to the fish just before baking for optimal flavor and texture.