If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors yet effortlessly simple to prepare, this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is an absolute must-try. Juicy, flaky cod fillets soak up the bright zest and juice of lemon combined with aromatic garlic, creating a vibrant, light meal that feels both special and comforting. Easy to whip up in just 25 minutes, this recipe proves you don’t need heaps of ingredients or time to make a delicious dinner that your whole family will adore. The delightful balance of lemon’s tang with garlic’s warmth makes this baked cod a standout in any weeknight routine or weekend feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but entirely essential to capturing the fresh, lively essence of the dish. Each one elevates the cod in its own unique way — from the rich but gentle olive oil that keeps the fish moist, to the citrusy brightness of lemon that wakes up every bite.
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fish for the best flaky texture and subtle flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds smooth richness and helps marry garlic and lemon flavors with the fish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides that irresistible, fragrant punch that pairs perfectly with seafood.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced: The star of the dish, adding fresh brightness and gentle acidity.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley): Offers a pop of green color and subtle herbal notes.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the cod.
- Lemon slices, for garnish: Adds visual appeal and an extra zing of citrus aroma when served.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking dish or sheet with parchment paper or apply a light grease to prevent sticking. This little step ensures your cod stays intact and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Your Flavorful Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, along with salt and pepper to taste. This blend is what will infuse your fish with a zesty garlic aroma and bright citrus notes that bring every bite to life.
Step 3: Prep the Cod Fillets
Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels — this helps the marinade cling well. Then arrange the fillets neatly into your prepared dish. Brush each piece generously with the lemon garlic mixture, making sure they’re well coated for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Add Lemon Slices and Bake
Place thin lemon slices on top of the fish. Not only do they look gorgeous, but they also release fragrant oils and a gentle tang as the fish bakes. Now, pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the cod is completely opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle extra fresh parsley and add a few more lemon slices for a vibrant, fresh finish. These final touches amp up both the look and flavor right before serving.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes make a big difference here. Add a few sprigs of fresh parsley and thin lemon slices to brighten the plate. If you want to get a bit more playful, freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving creates a lovely shine and mouthfeel.
Side Dishes
This baked cod pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides. Consider a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, steamed asparagus, or garlic roasted potatoes to complement the seafood without overpowering it. Rice pilaf or quinoa also work wonderfully for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the cod on a bed of wilted spinach or lemon-infused couscous. You can also use edible flowers or microgreens as delicate garnishes. Serving in individual shallow bowls with a spoonful of the lemon garlic sauce drizzled over the top adds an elegant touch that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked cod tastes great the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness. Keeping the fish separate from moist garnishes like lemon slices helps preserve texture.
Freezing
Because cod is such a delicate white fish, freezing cooked leftovers is possible but not always ideal — the texture can become a little softer. If you do freeze it, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Use within one month for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the cod in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) covered with foil to retain moisture. Microwaving is not recommended as it can dry out the fish. A quick warm-up keeps that fresh, flaky goodness intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before baking to avoid excess moisture diluting the flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this dish is naturally low in carbs and pairs well with many low-carb vegetables for a healthy, delicious meal.
Can I substitute lemon with lime or orange?
Lime would deliver a similarly bright, citrusy flavor, while orange will add a sweeter, softer note. Both make interesting variations—feel free to experiment!
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
The fish should be opaque all the way through and flake easily with a fork without falling apart into mush.
Can I add other herbs besides parsley?
Definitely. Dill, thyme, or basil can add lovely complementary flavors to the garlic and lemon profile.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is one of those joyful dishes that makes cooking feel less like a chore and more like a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. It’s light, flavorful, and incredibly quick to prepare — perfect for weeknights or impressing company. Give it a try and I promise it will become a treasured staple in your kitchen rotations!
Print
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to prepare tender cod fillets infused with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, this dish delivers a light, citrusy profile that complements the natural sweetness of the fish. With only a few basic ingredients and minimal prep, it’s an easy oven-baked meal that pleases the whole family.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Extra parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Lemon Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Season Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place them in the prepared baking dish and brush each fillet generously with the lemon garlic mixture. Arrange lemon slices on top of the fillets for added flavor and presentation.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary slightly based on fillet thickness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven and garnish with extra fresh parsley and additional lemon slices. Serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Ensure cod fillets are dry before applying the marinade to help the flavors adhere better.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for optimal flavor brightness.
- Adjust baking time according to the thickness of the fish to avoid overcooking.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
- For a dairy-free and gluten-free meal, this recipe is naturally compliant.
