Easy COD Recipes: Delicious and Quick Meals
Introduction
Looking for simple yet flavorful cod recipes that won't keep you in the kitchen all day? You've come to the right place! Cod is a versatile, flaky white fish that's packed with nutrients and cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. These easy cod recipes require minimal ingredients and preparation, promising delicious meals without the fuss. Let's dive into some fantastic options!
1. Pan-Seared Cod with Lemon and Herbs
This recipe is a classic for a reason – it's incredibly simple and delivers amazing results. The bright, fresh flavors of lemon and herbs perfectly complement the delicate taste of the cod.
Ingredients:
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season cod fillets generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add cod fillets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky.
- Top with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
- Serve immediately.
2. Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe is bursting with flavor and requires minimal cleanup. The combination of juicy tomatoes and briny olives creates a delicious sauce that perfectly complements the cod.
Ingredients:
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a baking dish, combine tomatoes, olives, garlic, olive oil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Place cod fillets on top of the tomato mixture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cod is cooked through and flaky.
- Serve immediately.
3. Sheet Pan Cod with Roasted Vegetables
For a complete and healthy meal, try this sheet pan recipe. It's incredibly easy to prepare – just toss everything on a baking sheet and roast!
Ingredients:
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Place cod fillets on the baking sheet with the vegetables.
- Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until cod is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Serve immediately.
Tips for Cooking Perfect Cod:
- Don't overcook! Cod cooks quickly and becomes dry if overcooked. Look for flaky, opaque flesh as a sign of doneness.
- Season generously. Cod has a mild flavor, so don't be shy with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Use high-quality ingredients. The better your ingredients, the better your dish will taste.
- Experiment with different flavors. Cod pairs well with a wide variety of flavors, so don't be afraid to get creative!
These easy cod recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick and healthy lunch. Enjoy!
