Name: Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika: A Flavorful Dinner Surprise!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large potatoes, sliced; 1 lemon, sliced; Fresh parsley for garnish

Save Recipe to Email

📧 Save This Recipe to Your Email

Enter your email address below and receive this recipe instantly.

🔒 Your email is safe with us. No spam, just great recipes.

Jump to Recipe

Introduction to Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika

Let me tell you, Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika is like a little culinary vacation to the sunny coasts of Spain, right from your own kitchen. If you’re anything like me, juggling a busy schedule while trying to keep dinner exciting can feel like a high-wire act. But this recipe is a game-changer. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it brings a delightful burst of flavor to your dinner table without the fuss.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Greek Chickpea Salad
Why You’ll Love This Greek Chickpea Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Greek Chickpea Salad
Tips for Perfect Results
Essential Equipment Needed
Delicious Variations of Greek Chickpea Salad
Serving Suggestions
FAQs About Greek Chickpea Salad
Final Thoughts on Greek Chickpea Salad

Imagine coming home after a long day, and in just 35 minutes, you have a dish that combines the flaky tenderness of cod with the smoky allure of paprika. It’s a dinner surprise that feels like a treat but fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for those nights when you need something special without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika

First off, let’s talk about the prep time. With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have this dish ready to pop in the oven. And the best part? Minimal cleanup! Just one baking sheet and a small bowl to wash up. It’s a dream come true for those of us who’d rather spend time enjoying our meal than scrubbing dishes.

The flavors are a hit with the whole family. The smoky paprika gives the cod a Spanish flair that’s both familiar and exciting. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want to serve something that feels a bit special. And if you’re hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress without keeping you tied to the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cod fillets: The star of the show, cod is mild and flaky, making it a perfect canvas for the smoky paprika.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the paprika mixture adhere to the fish.
Smoked paprika: This is where the magic happens. It infuses the dish with a warm, smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the cod.
Potatoes: Sliced thinly, they cook alongside the cod, soaking up all those delicious juices.
Lemon: Adds a bright, citrusy note that balances the smokiness of the paprika.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

If you’re looking to switch things up, try using sweet potatoes instead of regular ones for a touch of sweetness. Or swap the lemon for lime to give it a zesty twist. The possibilities are endless!

How to Make Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika

Step 1 – Prep Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). While the oven is warming up, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This mixture is going to be your flavor powerhouse, so make sure it’s well combined.

Step 2 – Begin Cooking

Next, place your cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. Brush the paprika mixture generously over the fillets, ensuring each piece is well coated. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Step 3 – Combine Ingredients

Now, arrange the sliced potatoes around the cod on the baking sheet. The potatoes will cook in the same time as the fish, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. Top each cod fillet with a couple of lemon slices. The lemon will infuse the fish with a bright, citrusy aroma as it bakes.

Step 4 – Finish and Serve

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve it up and watch as your family digs in with delight!

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to making Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika, a few simple tips can elevate your dish from good to absolutely mouthwatering. First and foremost, always opt for fresh cod if you can. Fresh fish has a delicate flavor and texture that frozen just can’t match. But if frozen is what you have, make sure it’s fully thawed before you start cooking.

Now, let’s talk paprika. If you’re like me and love a bit of smoky depth, don’t be shy with the smoked paprika. But if you’re cooking for someone with a milder palate, you can dial it back a notch. The beauty of this dish is its flexibility—it’s all about finding that perfect balance that suits your taste buds.

And those potatoes? Slice them nice and thin. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious juices from the cod and paprika mixture. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked potato that’s absorbed all those flavors.

Essential Equipment Needed

Before you dive into making this delightful dish, let’s make sure you have all the right tools on hand. You’ll need a sturdy baking sheet, preferably one with a rim to catch any juices. Lining it with parchment paper is a game-changer for easy cleanup.

A small mixing bowl is essential for whipping up that flavorful paprika mixture. And don’t forget a basting brush—this little tool ensures every inch of your cod fillets is coated in that smoky goodness. With these essentials, you’re all set to create a dinner masterpiece!

Delicious Variations of Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika

Feeling adventurous? There are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika. For an extra punch of flavor, try adding a few cloves of minced garlic to the paprika mixture. Garlic lovers, this one’s for you!

If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, swap out the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes. They add a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky paprika. And for a citrusy twist, use lime slices instead of lemon. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika, simplicity is key. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich, smoky flavors of the dish. A glass of chilled white wine complements the meal perfectly, adding a touch of elegance to your dinner table.

And if you’re a fan of crusty bread, don’t hesitate to add a slice or two on the side. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover juices on your plate. With these serving suggestions, you’re all set for a delightful dining experience.

FAQs About Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika

Can I use frozen cod? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.

What can I use instead of paprika? If you’re out of paprika or want to try something different, chili powder is a great alternative. It adds a bit of heat and a different kind of smokiness.

How do I store leftovers? If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 2 days, making for a quick and easy lunch the next day.

Final Thoughts on Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding a recipe that’s both simple and satisfying can feel like striking gold. Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika is just that—a dish that brings together ease, flavor, and a touch of elegance. It’s a reminder that even on the busiest of days, a delicious, home-cooked meal is within reach.

So, why not give it a try? Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With its vibrant flavors and healthful ingredients, it’s a dinner option that you’ll return to time and again. Here’s to making mealtime a little more special, one delicious dish at a time!

Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika: A Flavorful Dinner Surprise!

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: buenos aires run way
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Spanish Baked Cod with Paprika is a delightful dinner option that combines flaky fish with a smoky flavor, perfect for a flavorful surprise.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large potatoes, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the paprika mixture over the cod fillets evenly.
Arrange the sliced potatoes around the cod on the baking sheet.
Place lemon slices on top of the cod fillets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.