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Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Introduction
Are you looking for a simple and delicious seafood recipe that can be prepared in no time? Look no further! This easy baked cod with lemon and garlic is the perfect dish for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. The combination of tangy lemon and aromatic garlic perfectly complements the mild and flaky cod, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll love how effortless and satisfying this recipe is.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this easy baked cod with lemon and garlic recipe deserves a special place in your repertoire:
1. Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
2. Healthy and Nutritious: Cod is a lean white fish that is low in calories and high in protein. It’s also a great source of essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium.
3. Bursting with Flavor: The combination of zesty lemon and savory garlic adds a refreshing and aromatic twist to the mild flavor of the cod, making each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients
To make this easy baked cod with lemon and garlic, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and flavorful baked cod dish:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Season the Cod
Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet and season them with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure to season both sides of the fillets evenly.
3. Add the Lemon and Garlic
Arrange the lemon slices on top of the cod fillets, covering each fillet with a few slices. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the fillets.
4. Drizzle with Olive Oil
Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the cod fillets, ensuring each fillet is coated with a thin layer of oil.
5. Bake in the Oven
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. This easy baked cod with lemon and garlic pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the best results with this easy baked cod recipe:
– Use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a mild sea-like scent.
– If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the cod fillets before baking.
– To prevent the cod from sticking to the baking sheet, you can lightly grease the parchment paper with olive oil or cooking spray.
Variations and Substitutions
This easy baked cod recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
– Herb-Crusted Cod: Instead of using minced garlic, mix together some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and dill. Press the herb mixture onto the top of the cod fillets before baking.
– Mediterranean Style: Add some sliced cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese on top of the cod fillets for a Mediterranean twist.
– Dairy-Free Option: If you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, you can omit the feta cheese and use dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This easy baked cod with lemon and garlic is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience by pairing it with complementary side dishes and beverages. Here are a few serving suggestions:
– Serve the cod over a bed of fluffy quinoa or couscous for a complete and satisfying meal.
– Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini, for added color and nutrition.
– For a refreshing beverage, serve the baked cod with a glass of chilled white wine or a citrus-infused mocktail.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely before baking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture before seasoning and baking.
Q: Can I substitute cod with another type of fish?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works well with other white fish varieties like haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to enjoy the baked cod fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the seasoning mixture and slice the lemons and garlic in advance to save time. When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the remaining steps.
Final Thoughts
This easy baked cod with lemon and garlic recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a delicious and healthy seafood dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic garlic, and flaky cod will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and let the flavors whisk you away to a coastal paradise!
Don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you and any creative variations you tried!
Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
A simple and flavorful seafood dish featuring baked cod with zesty lemon and savory garlic. This recipe is quick to prepare, healthy, and bursting with delightful flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet and season them with salt and pepper to taste. Season both sides of the fillets evenly.
- Arrange the lemon slices on top of the cod fillets, covering each fillet with a few slices. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the fillets.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the cod fillets, ensuring each fillet is coated with a thin layer of oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, serve immediately. Enjoy with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
