Experience the simple yet exquisite flavors of Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod. This dish features tender cod fillets baked to perfection in a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to prepare and promises to impress with its bright, fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces of cod, each weighing around 6 ounces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light coating of olive oil.
- Season the Cod Fillets:
- Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the cod fillets.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare the Lemon Garlic Butter:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté for a minute until it releases its fragrance.
- Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, and then remove from heat.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour a thin stream of olive oil over the fillets.
- Pour the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake the Cod:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod fillets are opaque and easily flake with a fork.
- Ensure the internal temperature hits 145°F (63°C) for proper cooking.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately, spooning any extra lemon garlic butter sauce from the baking dish over the fillets.
Conclusion
Lemon Garlic Butter Baked Cod is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings out the best in this mild, flaky fish. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter enhances the natural flavors of the cod, making it a dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. Perfect for a quick, nutritious meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your seafood repertoire. Enjoy the fresh and vibrant taste of this delicious cod dish!