Lemon Butter Baked Cod: A Light and Flavorful Seafood Delight

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious seafood recipe? This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a perfect choice! With its flaky texture, zesty lemon flavor, and rich buttery goodness, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a light, nutritious meal, this baked cod will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients.
  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, butter, and herbs creates a mouthwatering taste.
  • Versatile: Pairs beautifully with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
  • Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a simple yet elegant meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 4 (6 oz) cod fillets
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Lemon slices, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This fragrant, tangy sauce will infuse the cod with incredible flavor.

3. Arrange the Cod Fillets

Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Spoon the lemon butter sauce evenly over the fillets, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.

4. Bake the Cod

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. Thicker fillets might need a few extra minutes.

5. Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot with your choice of sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Helpful Tips for the Perfect Baked Cod

  • Don’t Overcook: Cod cooks quickly, and overcooking can make it dry. Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and garlic enhance the flavors significantly.
  • Add a Crunch: For a crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the fillets before baking.
  • Substitutions: If cod isn’t available, you can use haddock, halibut, or tilapia.

What to Serve with Lemon Butter Baked Cod

  • Starches: Serve with rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a hearty meal.
  • Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a medley of colorful bell peppers.
  • Salads: A light arugula salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the cod.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the fish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before baking to remove excess moisture.

2. How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

3. Can I add other spices or herbs?
Absolutely! Try adding dill, oregano, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

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Lemon Butter Baked Cod: A Light and Flavorful Seafood Delight

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious seafood recipe? This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a perfect choice! With its flaky texture, zesty lemon flavor, and rich buttery goodness, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a light, nutritious meal, this baked cod will impress everyone at the table.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 (6 oz) cod fillets
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. This fragrant, tangy sauce will infuse the cod with incredible flavor.

3. Arrange the Cod Fillets

Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Spoon the lemon butter sauce evenly over the fillets, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.

4. Bake the Cod

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. Thicker fillets might need a few extra minutes.

5. Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices. Serve hot with your choice of sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

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