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Lemon Baked Fish: The Ultimate Guide to a Delicious & Healthy Meal


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Flaky and flavorful cod fillets baked with bright lemon slices, garlic, parsley, and a touch of white wine. A quick and easy weeknight dinner!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6-ounce) skinless cod fillets (or halibut, sea bass, or tilapia)
  • 2 lemons, one thinly sliced, one juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds great flavor!)
  • 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
  • Optional: Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. Lemon Bed: Arrange half of the lemon slices in a single layer at the bottom of the dish.
  4. Prep Fish: Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Place Fish: Arrange seasoned cod fillets on top of the lemon slices.
  6. Lemon-Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
  7. Drizzle: Pour the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
  8. Top with Lemon: Arrange the remaining lemon slices on top of the fish fillets.
  9. Dot with Butter: Dot the top of the fish with small pieces of butter.
  10. Add Wine (Optional): Pour white wine into the bottom of the baking dish, around the fish fillets.
  11. Cover: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  12. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  13. Check for Doneness: Gently insert a fork into the thickest part of a fillet. If the fish flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it’s ready.
  14. Remove Foil: Remove the aluminum foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  15. Broil (Optional): Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra browning, watching carefully.
  16. Rest: Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving.
  17. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.
  18. Serve: Serve immediately with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a salad.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the fish. Check for doneness frequently.
  • Adjust seasoning to your liking.
  • Experiment with different herbs like dill, oregano, or rosemary.
  • Add vegetables to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.
  • Prepare the fish ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. Add a few minutes to the baking time.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes