If you’re searching for a delicious, light, and fuss-free dinner that delivers both on taste and wow-factor, Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is an absolute must-try. Perfectly flaky white fish is bathed in a zesty lemon-garlic marinade, accented with aromatic herbs, and then quickly roasted for a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together in a snap. This dish is a weeknight hero and a dinner-party favorite all at once, with its vibrant flavors and beautiful simplicity. Whether you’re a seafood newcomer or lifelong cod fanatic, Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic lies in how a handful of everyday ingredients combine for something truly memorable. Each element brings its own touch: freshness, color, or a burst of flavor that elevates the dish. Here’s what you’ll need (plus a special tip for every ingredient):
- Cod Fillets: Fresh is always best, but well-thawed frozen fillets work—just be sure to pat them dry for maximum flavor absorption.
- Olive Oil: A fruity, robust olive oil helps carry the lemon and garlic flavors right into the tender fish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses each bite with mellow, warm depth; don’t skimp here!
- Lemon (zest and juice): Zest for bold citrus aroma, juice for tang; the combo cuts through the richness of the cod beautifully.
- Dried Oregano: This herb brings an earthy Mediterranean note that works wonders with both lemon and fish.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a lovely golden hue to your roasted fillets.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Balances and heightens all the flavors—taste and season just before baking.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for color and a fresh, herbal finish right before serving.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with a drizzle of olive oil or a spritz of nonstick spray. This step ensures the cod lifts off easily after baking and makes for simple clean-up. Place your cod fillets in a single layer, not overlapping, so each piece cooks evenly and soaks up all that marvelous flavor.
Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is the heartbeat of Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic; the oil helps all the seasonings adhere to the fish, while the citrus and herbs infuse every flake with zippy, savory brightness. Give it a taste and adjust the lemon or salt if you like a bigger pop of flavor.
Step 3: Dress the Cod Fillets
Pour the marinade evenly over the cod fillets, using a spoon to help coat each piece thoroughly. Don’t be shy! Work the garlic-lemon mixture into any crevices on the fillets for more intense flavor. If you like a slightly richer finish, now’s the time to lay a couple of thin pats of butter on each fillet—trust me, it’s heavenly.
Step 4: Bake to Tender Perfection
Pop the dish into your hot oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Timing will depend on the thickness of your fish, but you’ll know your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and has a pearly, opaque appearance. Take care not to overbake, as cod can dry out quickly—start checking around the 12-minute mark.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Pull the fish out of the oven and immediately scatter the fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve with extra lemon wedges for an added citrusy zing. The aroma of garlic, lemon, and roasted fish is practically irresistible!
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic
Garnishes
Adding a final flourish is part of the fun with Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic. A sprinkle of fresh parsley brings vivid green and gentle fragrance, while a few extra lemon wedges on the side allow everyone at the table to adjust the tartness to their taste. If you want to get fancy, a light dusting of smoked paprika or a handful of microgreens makes for a stunning plate.
Side Dishes
This cod pairs beautifully with so many sides. I love to serve it atop fluffy rice pilaf, alongside garlicky roasted potatoes, or with a crisp garden salad tossed in vinaigrette. For a Mediterranean twist, try couscous or simply roasted asparagus to soak up the tangy juices from the Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a bit whimsical? For a dinner party, plate the cod atop a bed of lemony smashed peas and drizzle the pan sauce over top. Or, flake the baked fish and pile it into warm pita with a tangy yogurt sauce for a light, handheld feast. Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is deliciously versatile, so have fun with presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, cool the fish to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it keeps its flavor and texture for up to 2 days. Use within this window for the best, freshest taste.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. The cod can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain its delicate, flaky texture.
Reheating
When reheating, go gently to avoid drying out the fish. Warm your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic in a 300°F oven, covered loosely with foil, for about 10 minutes or just until heated through. A splash of lemon juice or olive oil before reheating can help restore moisture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic turns out wonderful with frozen fillets, as long as you thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry before marinating. This ensures your cod bakes evenly and soaks up all that bright, garlicky-lemon flavor.
What’s the best way to tell if my cod is done?
Certainly check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet—it should flake easily and appear opaque throughout. Overbaking can dry it out, so start checking around 12 minutes, especially for thinner fillets.
Can I substitute another type Main Course
Yes! While Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a classic, you can use haddock, halibut, or pollock with great results. Just adjust the baking time as needed depending on the thickness and type of fish.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Definitely. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free (unless you opt for those butter pats), low-carb, and packed with lean protein. It fits beautifully into a variety of healthy eating plans without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
You can mix the marinade and let the cod fillets sit in it for up to an hour in the fridge before baking. For best results and texture, bake Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic just before serving—freshly baked is always best!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that’s both simple and show-stopping, give Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic a spot on your table. The flavors are pure, the preparation is breezy, and the results are always met with wide smiles and happy sighs. Trust me: once you try it, this dish will become a beloved staple in your kitchen too! Enjoy every bite.
Print
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This flavorful Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic recipe is a simple and healthy way to enjoy tender cod fillets with zesty citrus and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry and place them in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Cod: Pour the seasoning mixture over the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use fresh cod for the best flavor, but thawed frozen fillets can also be used.
- For added richness, top with thin pats of butter before baking.
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
