Let me tell you, Baked Cod with Lemon is one of those recipes that just makes my heart sing! It’s incredibly simple yet bursting with flavor, making it perfect for a healthy dinner any night of the week. I love how quickly it comes together—just a few fresh ingredients and you’re on your way to a delicious meal! Whenever I make this, I feel like I’m treating myself to something special while still sticking to my healthy eating goals. Plus, the aroma of garlic and lemon wafting through the kitchen is just heavenly! Trust me, you’ll find yourself making this again and again because it’s not just good for you, it’s downright delightful. So, grab your cod and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Baked Cod with Lemon
Let’s gather our ingredients to whip up this delightful dish! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cod fillets: Make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor and texture. Each fillet should be about 6 ounces.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This is the magic that keeps our fish moist and adds a lovely richness.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Fresh lemon slices will brighten up the dish and enhance that citrusy zing!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must! It adds an aromatic punch that complements the fish beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it brings all the flavors together!
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds a pop of color and freshness.
These simple ingredients come together for a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious!
How to Prepare Baked Cod with Lemon
Alright, let’s dive into the preparation for this scrumptious Baked Cod with Lemon! It’s super straightforward, and I promise you’ll love how easy it is. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod cooks evenly and comes out perfectly flaky.
Next, grab a baking dish and place the cod fillets inside. You want them to fit comfortably without overlapping. Now, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the fillets, making sure they’re nicely coated. This step is crucial for keeping the fish moist!
Sprinkle your minced garlic over the fillets, followed by a generous pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to season well; it really enhances the flavors! Now, it’s time to top the fillets with your lemon slices, arranging them beautifully over the fish.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque. Once it’s out, feel free to garnish with fresh parsley before serving. And there you have it—you’re all set to enjoy a delightful, healthy meal!
Nutritional Information for Baked Cod with Lemon
Now, let’s talk nutrition! This Baked Cod with Lemon is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Each serving (that’s one fillet) typically contains about 180 calories, with 8 grams of fat, 25 grams of protein, and 0 grams of carbohydrates. It’s low in calories and rich in protein, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to eat healthily. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this guilt-free dish that’s as nourishing as it is tasty!
Why You’ll Love Baked Cod with Lemon
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings!
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and low in calories, it fits perfectly into any healthy eating plan.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon and garlic elevates the mild cod to a new level of deliciousness.
- Versatile: You can serve it with a variety of sides, making it a great addition to any meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The colorful lemon slices and fresh parsley make it look as good as it tastes!
Tips for Success with Baked Cod with Lemon
To make your Baked Cod with Lemon truly shine, here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way! First, always choose fresh cod if you can—frozen can work in a pinch, but fresh really makes a difference in flavor and texture. Don’t forget to thaw frozen fish completely before cooking; it helps it cook evenly.
Another great tip is to check for doneness a minute or two early. Fish can go from perfectly flaky to overcooked surprisingly fast! If you’re unsure, just use a fork to gently flake the fish; it should be opaque and come apart easily.
Lastly, feel free to experiment with the seasoning! Adding a pinch of paprika or a sprinkle of dill can take this dish to the next level. And remember, let it rest for a minute after baking before serving—this allows the juices to settle, making it even more delicious!
Variations of Baked Cod with Lemon
Baked Cod with Lemon is fantastic as is, but if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch it up! For a Mediterranean twist, try adding chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes on top before baking. These ingredients add a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cod. If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the fish for a spicy kick!
Another delicious option is to swap out the lemon for lime or even orange slices for a different citrusy zing. Fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or basil can also be mixed in for a fragrant touch. Feel free to get creative with spices—try adding cumin or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily make this dish your own!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Cod with Lemon
Now that you’ve got this delightful Baked Cod with Lemon ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve it with to create a well-rounded meal! This dish pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing salad. I love a simple arugula salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon for that extra zing. You can also serve it alongside some fluffy quinoa or brown rice, which not only adds a nice texture but also complements the flavors of the fish perfectly.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make a colorful and nutritious addition. Just toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for about 20 minutes. Trust me, these sides will elevate your Baked Cod with Lemon into a truly satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and healthy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Baked Cod with Lemon
Let’s talk leftovers! If you happen to have any Baked Cod with Lemon left (which is rare in my house!), the key to storing it is to keep it as fresh as possible. First, make sure to let the cod cool completely before storing it. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay good for about 2-3 days.
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the oven to preserve that lovely texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cod in a baking dish. If it seems a little dry, drizzle a touch of olive oil or add a splash of lemon juice on top to keep it moist. Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy your delicious leftovers without losing that delightful flavor!
FAQ about Baked Cod with Lemon
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What can I substitute for cod? You can use other white fish like haddock or tilapia if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on thickness.
How do I know when the cod is done? The fish is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque. It’s best to check a minute or two early to avoid overcooking!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best fresh, you can prep everything in advance and bake it right before serving for maximum flavor.
What should I serve with Baked Cod? It pairs wonderfully with salads, grains like quinoa, or roasted veggies. Just about anything fresh and colorful will complement it beautifully!
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Baked Cod with Lemon: 5 Simple Steps to Delightful Flavor
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and healthy baked cod recipe with lemon.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets.
- Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Top with lemon slices.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fish flakes easily.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cod is fresh.
- You can use other fish if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Baked Cod with Lemon, Healthy Cod Recipe, Seafood Dish