Baked Cod Recipe: A Flaky, Flavorful, and Healthy Meal
This baked cod recipe is a simple, yet elegant way to enjoy this healthy and delicious white fish. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or anytime you crave a light yet satisfying meal. This recipe is easily customizable to your taste preferences, allowing for endless variations. Let's dive into the details!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs cod fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil - A healthy fat that adds flavor and helps the cod brown beautifully.
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced - For both flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced - Adds a pungent and savory note.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, or thyme - Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly. Choose your favorites!
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper - To taste, of course! Don't be shy with the seasoning.
- Optional additions: Consider adding cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, or even some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod cooks evenly and reaches that perfect flaky texture.
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Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
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Season the cod: Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Don't forget to season both sides!
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Add the flavor boosters: Arrange lemon slices and minced garlic over the cod. Sprinkle with your chosen fresh herbs. If using optional additions, now's the time to add them.
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Bake to perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes.
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Serve and enjoy! Serve your baked cod immediately. It's delicious on its own, or you can pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple salad.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Cod:
- Don't overcook the cod! Overcooked cod will be dry and tough. It's better to slightly undercook it than overcook it.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the taste of your dish.
- Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, or even a touch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the cod. If it flakes easily, it's done.
Beyond the Basics: Recipe Variations
This baked cod recipe is incredibly versatile. Experiment with different flavor combinations:
- Mediterranean Baked Cod: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Baked Cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon-Garlic Butter Baked Cod: Melt some butter with garlic and lemon juice before baking for extra richness.
This baked cod recipe is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today and let your taste buds thank you! Remember to share your culinary creations using #BakedCodRecipe!
