Easy and Delicious COD Baked Recipe
This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. This baked cod recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs cod fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian seasoning, Herbes de Provence, or a custom blend are all great choices!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional additions: cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, asparagus spears, or other vegetables you enjoy.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Preparing the Cod:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod bakes evenly and perfectly.
- Prepare your baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Season the cod: Place the cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and then sprinkle generously with your chosen herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Adding Flavor and Vegetables (Optional):
- Lemon slices: Arrange lemon slices on top of the cod fillets. The lemon adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the cod beautifully.
- Vegetables: If using, arrange your chosen vegetables (cherry tomatoes, red onions, asparagus, etc.) around the cod fillets. This adds extra nutrients and flavor to your dish.
Baking the Cod:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on it!
- Check for doneness: Gently press the thickest part of a fillet. If it flakes easily, it's ready. If not, bake for a few more minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
- A simple side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables complements this dish perfectly.
- For extra flavor, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the cooked cod before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Cod:
- Don't overcook the cod! Overcooked cod becomes dry and tough. It's better to slightly undercook it than overcook it.
- Use fresh herbs if possible. Fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor than dried herbs.
- Experiment with different seasonings. Try adding different herbs, spices, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They're great for lunch or a quick dinner.
This baked cod recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to your taste preferences. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #bakedcod #codrecipe #easyrecipe.
