If you’re craving a dish that’s fresh, flavorful, and downright comforting, this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is going to become your new favorite in no time. Tender cod fillets are bathed in a vibrant mix of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and fragrant parsley, then baked to flaky perfection. Every bite bursts with bright citrus notes and savory garlic goodness, making it a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on how easily it transforms basic ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are both simple and purposeful. Each one plays a crucial role in balancing the flavors, enhancing the freshness of the cod, and creating that irresistible aroma as it bakes.
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm fillets to ensure flaky, moist fish after baking.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and lemon flavors throughout the fish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides that signature punch of warmth and depth that pairs beautifully with lemon.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced: Brightens the dish with citrusy zing while adding subtle acidity to balance the richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other flavors in the dish.
- Lemon slices, for garnish: Not only decorative but also enhance the lemon 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). This temperature is ideal for baking the cod perfectly—cooking it evenly without drying it out. Line your baking dish or sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent the delicate fish from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Lemon Garlic Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. This marinade is where all that fragrant flavor concentration happens. The olive oil ensures moisture, while the lemon and garlic infuse their bright, savory notes directly into the fish during baking. It’s the heart and soul of this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe.
Step 3: Prepare and Season the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the marinade stick better and promotes a nice texture. Place the fillets in your prepared baking dish and generously brush each one with the lemon garlic mixture. The vivid aroma will start filling your kitchen now! Arrange thin lemon slices on top for added visual appeal and an extra citrus boost as they gently bake.
Step 4: Bake to Flaky Perfection
Bake the cod in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The fish should turn opaque and flake easily when gently tested with a fork. Don’t overbake—keeping an eye on cooking time ensures your cod remains tender and juicy, never dry.
Step 5: Garnish and Get Ready to Serve
Once baked, sprinkle extra fresh parsley and additional lemon slices on top for a bright, inviting presentation. This final touch not only makes the dish look irresistible but adds fresh aroma and a burst of color.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley and lemon slices complement the dish perfectly, enhancing its vibrant flavors and making each serving look as good as it tastes. You can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a pinch of flaky sea salt at the table for some added flair.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy quinoa or wild rice to soak up the lemony juices, steamed asparagus or green beans for a fresh crunch, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting balance of textures. The versatility makes it easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand or your mood that day.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the cod atop a bed of sautéed spinach or mixed greens lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Plating with edible flowers or microgreens can turn this wholesome meal into a culinary statement perfect for entertaining guests or special dinners at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to preserve the delicate texture and flavors.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, freeze cooked cod in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Label with the date for easy tracking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the cod in a low oven (around 275°F or 135°C) for 10-15 minutes to prevent drying out, or microwave on a low setting in short intervals. Avoid high heat to keep the fish flaky and moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before baking. This helps the marinade stick and ensures even cooking.
Is this dish suitable for people who are new to cooking fish?
Yes, this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is very beginner-friendly. The steps are straightforward, and baking fish is a forgiving method that gives you moist, flavorful results with minimal fuss.
Can I substitute the parsley with other herbs?
Definitely! Fresh dill, thyme, or basil work well and provide different but delicious flavor profiles. Just adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons?
Fresh lemon zest and juice are ideal for the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice and a pinch of lemon powder zest if needed. Fresh is always tastier, though, so I recommend picking up a lemon if possible.
How can I add more flavor without overpowering the cod?
Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a touch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for subtle heat and complexity. Just a little goes a long way without overpowering the delicate fish.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is one of those feel-good meals that delivers big on flavor while keeping things wonderfully simple. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s hard to go wrong with tender, citrus-kissed cod fresh from the oven. Give it a try and see how these humble ingredients come together to create something truly special—your taste buds will thank you!
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 Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a light and flavorful dish perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. Tender cod fillets are brushed with a zesty lemon, garlic, and parsley mixture, then baked to perfection for a moist and flaky result. The fresh lemon slices add a bright, aromatic touch, making it a simple yet elegant seafood recipe.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Flavoring
- 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 the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish or sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the lemon garlic mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will infuse the cod with bright and savory flavors.
- Prepare the cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and brush them generously with the lemon garlic mixture. Arrange lemon slices on top of each fillet for added aroma and visual appeal.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily when tested with a fork. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and garnish with extra fresh parsley and additional lemon slices. Serve immediately for a fresh and delicious meal.
Notes
- Ensure the cod fillets are dried well before applying the lemon garlic mixture to help the flavors adhere better.
- For an extra crispy top, you can broil the cod during the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
- Fresh parsley is preferred for the best flavor, but dried parsley can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
