If you’re looking for a dish that feels both fresh and comforting, the Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish highlights the delicate, flaky texture of cod, enhanced by a vibrant and creamy lemon-dill sauce that sings with bright citrus notes and fragrant herbs. It’s a meal that comes together quickly, perfect for weeknights or a leisurely weekend supper, and it brings a satisfying elegance to your dinner table without any fuss. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seafood with a zingy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a critical role—fish that’s perfectly tender, seasonings that create depth, and a sauce that lifts every bite with its creamy brightness. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- Cod fillets: Choose fresh or well-thawed fillets about 6 ounces each for the best texture and flavor.
- Olive oil: A light brush will keep the fish moist and add subtle richness during baking.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavor of the cod.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle aromatic warmth without overpowering the delicate fish.
- Paprika (optional): Provides a touch of smokiness and a lovely hue if you like a little extra color.
- Lemon slices: Both a garnish and a visual cue to the lemony brightness inside the sauce.
- Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Creates a smooth, tangy base for the lemon-dill sauce.
- Mayonnaise (optional): For those who love a creamier sauce, this little addition is a game changer.
- Fresh dill, finely chopped: The star herb that pairs perfectly with lemon and fish for a fresh finish.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best to deliver punchy acidity that wakes up the whole dish.
- Lemon zest: Adds a burst of aromatic citrus that makes the sauce shine.
- Dijon mustard: A subtle tang that gives the sauce depth and complexity.
- Minced garlic clove (optional): Just a bit of sharpness to complement the dill and lemon.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by warming your oven to a lively 400°F (200°C). This high temperature helps the cod cook through quickly while keeping it moist and tender inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking—this small step makes cleanup a breeze and keeps your fillets intact.
Step 2: Season the Cod
Pat each cod fillet dry to ensure the olive oil and spices stick effectively. Brush both sides with a generous coating of olive oil for moisture and flavor. Then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and if you love a hint of smoky warmth, a dusting of paprika. Arrange the fillets neatly on your prepared tray, giving each piece some breathing room.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray in your hot oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know the cod is ready when it flakes effortlessly at the touch of a fork, and the internal temperature reaches a safe and juicy 145°F (63°C). This quick bake ensures a tender but firm texture that’s sure to impress.
Step 4: Whip Up the Lemon-Dill Sauce
While the cod bakes, it’s time to craft the sauce that makes this dish so memorable. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise if you prefer creaminess, fresh chopped dill, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and minced garlic if you like it. Season with salt and pepper and mix until the sauce is silky and zesty. Pop it in the fridge until your cod is ready.
Step 5: Serve with Style
Once baked, let the cod fillets rest briefly before plating. Dollop or drizzle the lemon-dill sauce generously on top, or serve it on the side so everyone can add as much as they like. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon slices for that final flourish.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A few sprigs of fresh dill and some thin lemon slices are all you need to elevate the presentation. The green herbs add a vibrant pop of color, while the lemon slices not only look pretty but give a hint of the citrus flavor that awaits in the sauce. It’s simple elegance that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides. Think steamed asparagus, roasted baby potatoes tossed with herbs, or a crisp green salad with cucumbers and vinaigrette. The goal is to keep things bright and fresh, complementing the delicate fish without overpowering the lemon-dill flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the cod on a large platter surrounded by lemon wedges and fresh dill sprigs. You can also scoop the sauce into a pretty small bowl so guests can help themselves. Another lovely idea is to plate the fish over a bed of fluffy quinoa or couscous, which soaks up every bit of that luscious lemon-dill sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover cod, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 1 to 2 days. The sauce can be stored separately to retain its fresh zing and creamy texture.
Freezing
While fresh is best for this delicate fish, you can freeze uncooked cod fillets if needed. After thawing, plan to bake and serve immediately. The lemon-dill sauce is better fresh, so avoid freezing it to maintain its vibrant flavor and texture.
Reheating
To gently reheat leftover cod, use a low oven temperature or a microwave on a low setting to avoid drying it out. Add a spoonful of the reserved lemon-dill sauce after warming for that fresh flavor boost. Microwaving the sauce separately is best to prevent curdling or separation.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish in this Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe?
Absolutely! White flaky fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia can be great alternatives and will work well with the lemon-dill sauce.
Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt in the sauce?
Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang with fewer calories, but sour cream or even a mayonnaise-only base can work if you prefer a richer sauce.
Can I prepare the lemon-dill sauce ahead of time?
Yes, making the sauce a few hours ahead helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge until ready to serve.
What can I serve if I want to make this a low-carb meal?
Pair the baked cod with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad instead of starchy sides for a refreshing low-carb option.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
The cod should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque appearance. Using a food thermometer to reach 145°F ensures it’s safe and tender.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a seafood dinner that’s both easy to make and brimming with bright, delightful flavors, don’t hesitate to try this Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe. It’s a personal favorite that impresses every time with minimal effort. I promise, once you’ve experienced the light, flaky cod paired with that luscious, tangy sauce, it will become a staple in your cooking rotation. So grab some fresh cod, and let’s get baking!
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Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This baked cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets seasoned with garlic, paprika, and olive oil, then baked to perfection. Served with a refreshing lemon-dill sauce made from Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, and lemon, this dish is a light, healthy, and flavorful meal ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or elegant gathering.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
For the Lemon-Dill Sauce:
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the cod fillets.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking during baking.
- Prepare Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then brush both sides with olive oil for flavor and to promote browning.
- Season Fillets: Season the fillets evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Arrange the fillets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake Cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
- Make Lemon-Dill Sauce: While the cod bakes, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), fresh dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill Sauce: Cover the prepared sauce and refrigerate it until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Plate Cod and Serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Plate the fillets and either drizzle the lemon-dill sauce over the top or serve it on the side.
- Garnish and Present: Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon slices for an attractive presentation before serving.
Notes
- Ensure to dry the cod fillets thoroughly before seasoning to achieve a better texture.
- Mayonnaise in the sauce is optional but adds creaminess; substitute with extra Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fish fillets.
- The lemon-dill sauce can be prepared a day ahead to enhance flavors.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
