Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic is a delightful dish that brings together the fresh flavors of the sea and the zesty brightness of citrus. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how this simple yet elegant meal has been a staple in coastal communities for generations. The combination of tender cod fillets, infused with aromatic garlic and the tangy essence of lemon, creates a symphony of taste that is both comforting and invigorating.

People love Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic not only for its incredible flavor but also for its ease of preparation. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, as it requires minimal ingredients and can be on the table in under 30 minutes. The flaky texture of the cod, paired with the bright notes of lemon and the savory depth of garlic, makes it a favorite among seafood lovers and novices alike. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Preparing the Marinade

1. **Gather your ingredients**: Start by measuring out all the ingredients listed above. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. 2. **Mix the marinade**: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended. The aroma of the garlic and lemon will already start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s just a hint of what’s to come! 3. **Marinate the cod**: Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring each fillet is well coated. If you’re using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. If you’re using a bag, seal it tightly. Let the cod marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, an hour is even better. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish beautifully.

Preparing the Baking Dish

4. **Preheat the oven**: While the cod is marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the fish will cook evenly and gives it a nice, flaky texture. 5. **Prepare the baking dish**: Take a baking dish (a 9×13 inch dish works great) and lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the fish from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Baking the Cod

6. **Arrange the cod in the dish**: After the cod has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are spaced out evenly. This allows the heat to circulate around each piece, ensuring even cooking. 7. **Pour the remaining marinade**: Drizzle any leftover marinade over the top of the cod fillets. This will enhance the flavor and keep the fish moist while it bakes. 8. **Bake the cod**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Finishing Touches

9. **Garnish the cod**: Once the cod is out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. 10. **Serve with lemon wedges**: Serve the baked cod with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating elevates the dish and adds a zesty brightness that complements the garlic and herbs beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

11. **Pair with sides**: This baked cod is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas: – **Roasted vegetables**: Toss some seasonal veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven alongside the fish for a complete meal. – **Rice or quinoa**: A fluffy bed of rice or quinoa can soak up the delicious juices from the cod. You can even cook it in vegetable broth for added flavor. – **Salad**: A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the fish. Consider adding some cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado for a refreshing crunch. 12. **Enjoy your meal**: Now that everything is ready, it’s time to dig in! The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a delightful flavor profile that makes this dish a favorite in my household. I love serving it for family dinners or even for guests, as it looks elegant yet is so easy to prepare.

Storing Leftovers

13. **Store any leftovers**: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is

Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The combination of tender, flaky cod infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic creates a dish that is not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying. Whether you serve it alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bed of fluffy quinoa, this recipe is versatile enough to complement a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion. For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra burst of flavor, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. You could also experiment with different types of fish or seafood, such as tilapia or shrimp, to keep things interesting. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add your own twist? What sides did you pair it with? Share your thoughts and photos, and let’s inspire each other in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

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