Baked Cod Recipes: A Delicious and Healthy Choice
Baked cod is a fantastic option for a healthy and flavorful meal. It's quick to prepare, versatile, and packed with nutrients. This guide explores various baked cod recipes, catering to different tastes and skill levels. We'll cover everything from simple preparations to more elaborate dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone. Let's dive in!
Simple Baked Cod Recipes: Perfect for Weeknights
These recipes are ideal for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and healthy meal on the table quickly.
Lemon Herb Baked Cod:
This classic recipe is incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cod fillets
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried herbs (Italian mix, oregano, or thyme work well)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Top with lemon slices.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
This recipe is easily adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes provides a nice kick!
Garlic and Parmesan Baked Cod:
A simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cod fillets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with minced garlic and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
More Adventurous Baked Cod Recipes
For those who enjoy a bit more culinary adventure, these recipes offer a wider range of flavors and techniques.
Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives:
This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cod fillets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish.
- Top with cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and the tomatoes are softened.
Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables:
This healthy and satisfying recipe combines flaky cod with your favorite roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cod fillets
- 1 lb assorted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, etc.), chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your favorite herbs and spices
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Spread vegetables in a baking dish.
- Place cod fillets on top of the vegetables.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Tips for Baking Perfect Cod
- Don't overcook: Overcooked cod is dry and tough. Cook until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Season generously: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper.
- Experiment with different flavors: Try adding different herbs, spices, vegetables, and cheeses to create your own unique baked cod recipes.
By following these simple recipes and tips, you can easily create delicious and healthy baked cod dishes that will impress your family and friends. Remember to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of your cod fillets and your oven's temperature. Enjoy!
