Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Create the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, combine olive oil (or melted butter), fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until fully blended.

Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and brush generously with the lemon garlic mixture. Ensure each fillet is well-coated.

Bake the Cod: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the baked cod and garnish with lemon slices for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a crisp salad.