Oven-Baked Cod: A Flaky, Delicious, and Easy Recipe
Are you looking for a simple yet elegant recipe that will impress your friends and family? Look no further than this oven-baked cod recipe! This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and cleanup, yet delivers a flaky, juicy, and flavorful cod that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why This Oven-Baked Cod Recipe is a Winner
This recipe focuses on bringing out the natural sweetness and delicate flavor of the cod. We avoid heavy sauces and complicated techniques, instead opting for a simple preparation that lets the star ingredient shine. The oven baking method ensures the cod remains moist and tender, with a beautifully crispy skin.
Key Benefits:
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and cooking time makes this perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Cod is a lean protein packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to your preferred seasonings and flavors.
- Delicious: The result is a flaky, moist, and flavorful cod that's simply irresistible.
- Impressive: This dish looks elegant enough to serve at a dinner party, yet is simple enough for a casual weeknight meal.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs cod fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or dill, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod cooks evenly and to perfection.
- Prepare the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy skin if using skin-on fillets.
- Season the cod: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the cod fillets.
- Arrange and bake: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish. Arrange the lemon slices over and around 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.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh herbs (if using) and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some crusty bread.
Tips for Oven-Baked Cod Perfection:
- Don't overcook the cod! Overcooked cod will be dry and tough. It's better to slightly undercook it than overcook it.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can't match.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Consider adding paprika, cumin, or chili flakes for a spicier kick.
- Add vegetables: Roast some vegetables alongside the cod for a complete and healthy meal. Asparagus, broccoli, and bell peppers all pair well with cod.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen cod? A: Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking.
Q: Can I bake this in a foil packet? A: Yes, baking in foil packets helps retain moisture. Simply place the seasoned cod and lemon slices in a foil packet and bake as directed.
Q: How do I know when the cod is cooked? A: The cod is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
This oven-baked cod recipe is a true winner. Its simplicity, deliciousness, and versatility make it a perfect addition to any cook's repertoire. Give it a try and enjoy!
