Cod is a versatile and mild-flavored fish that pairs beautifully with bright, fresh ingredients. This Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural flavors of the fish while adding a zesty, garlicky kick. The light coating of seasoned flour gives the cod a subtle crispness, while the lemon garlic sauce infuses it with moisture and flavor. This dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, delivering both taste and nutrition in one easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 1.5 lb cod fillet pieces, cut into 4-6 portions
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
For the Lemon Sauce:
- 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
For the Coating:
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 3/4 teaspoon sweet Spanish paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and either line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spray of cooking oil.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, ground coriander, sweet Spanish paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Cod:
- Gently blot the cod fillets with paper towels to eliminate any surplus moisture.
- This helps the coating adhere better.
- Dredge each piece of cod in the flour mixture, ensuring all sides are lightly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, melted butter, and minced garlic. This mixture will be both a marinade and a finishing sauce.
- Bake the Cod:
- Place the coated cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon about half of the lemon garlic sauce evenly over the cod pieces, reserving the other half for later.
- Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish with Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- Once the cod is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately drizzle the remaining lemon garlic sauce over the fillets. The warmth of the fish will help the sauce absorb, adding extra flavor.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the baked cod with the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve the cod warm, paired with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.
Conclusion
This Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Sauce is a deliciously light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and a hint of buttery richness creates a sauce that enhances the mild, tender cod without overwhelming it. The light flour coating adds just the right amount of texture, while the fresh parsley brings everything together with a burst of freshness. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!