Baked Cod Fish Recipe: A Flaky, Flavorful Delight
Are you looking for a simple yet elegant recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this baked cod fish recipe! This dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, yet delivers maximum flavor and texture. The cod fillets, baked to perfection, boast a flaky, moist interior and a slightly crispy exterior. It's a healthy and delicious weeknight meal or a sophisticated addition to your weekend dinner spread.
What You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. However, here's a list of the essential ingredients:
- Cod Fillets: 1-1.5 lbs cod fillets, skin on or off (your preference!) Make sure they are fresh and of good quality.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for a healthy and flavorful base.
- Lemon: 1 large lemon, juiced and zested, for brightness and acidity.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced, adding aromatic depth.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme (1-2 tablespoons chopped), offering a burst of freshness. Dried herbs work well too (use about 1/3 the amount).
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the natural flavors.
- Optional Additions: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding:
- White Wine: A splash of white wine for extra depth.
- Capers: For a briny tang.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Roasted alongside for sweetness and color.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Preparation:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Create the Flavor Base: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and your chosen herbs.
Baking:
- Arrange and Bake: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish. Pour the lemon-herb mixture evenly over the cod, ensuring each fillet is coated. If using cherry tomatoes, arrange them around the fish.
- Baking Time: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Baking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. Thicker fillets will require a longer baking time.
- Check for Doneness: Gently test the cod with a fork. It should flake easily and be opaque throughout.
Serving:
- Garnish: Once cooked, garnish with extra fresh herbs and a lemon wedge, if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.
Tips for Perfect Baked Cod:
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking will result in dry, tough cod. It's better to slightly underbake than overbake.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the taste of your dish.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your personal preference.
- Experiment with Flavors: Get creative with the herbs and spices you use. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find your favorite.
This baked cod fish recipe is a fantastic option for a healthy and delicious meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
