Name: Lemon Herb Baked Cod: A Light Dinner Delight!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, sliced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction to Lemon Herb Baked Cod

Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving a meal that’s both delicious and healthy, especially when time is not on your side. Enter Lemon Herb Baked Cod, the perfect light dinner solution for those hectic evenings. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling family schedules or a professional with a packed calendar, this dish is your ticket to a quick, nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Lemon Herb Baked Cod: A Light Dinner Delight!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Herb Baked Cod

First off, let’s talk about the prep time. With just 10 minutes of hands-on work, you’ll have this dish ready to pop in the oven. And the best part? Minimal cleanup! Just one baking sheet and a few utensils, and you’re done. It’s a dream come true for anyone who dreads the post-dinner dish pile-up.

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

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 cod fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, sliced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in this recipe. The cod fillets are the star of the show, providing a mild, flaky base that soaks up all the delicious flavors. Olive oil adds a rich, smooth texture, while lemon slices infuse the fish with a bright, tangy kick. Fresh parsley brings a pop of color and a hint of earthiness, tying everything together beautifully.

If you’re feeling adventurous or simply want to switch things up, you can easily substitute the cod with other white fish like haddock or halibut. And don’t worry about the measurements—I’ve got a printable version at the end of this article to make your life even easier.

How to Make Lemon Herb Baked Cod

Step 1 – Prep Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Next, slice your lemon into thin rounds and chop the fresh parsley. These simple steps set the stage for a flavorful dish.

Step 2 – Begin Cooking

Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space to breathe. Drizzle each fillet with olive oil, ensuring they’re well-coated. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.

Step 3 – Combine Ingredients

Now, it’s time to layer on the goodness. Arrange the lemon slices on top of each fillet, letting the citrus work its magic. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the fish, adding a touch of freshness and color. It’s like dressing up your cod for a night out!

Step 4 – Finish and Serve

Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the cod bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Serve immediately, perhaps with a few extra lemon wedges on the side for those who love an extra zing.

Tips for Perfect Results

When it comes to making Lemon Herb Baked Cod, a few simple tips can elevate your dish from good to absolutely mouthwatering. Trust me, these little tricks are worth their weight in gold!

First up, let’s talk about marinating. If you have a bit of extra time, marinating the cod can take the flavor to a whole new level. Just mix some olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs, and let the cod soak up all that goodness for about 30 minutes before baking. It’s like giving your fish a flavor bath, and the result is a more intense, aromatic dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Next, fresh herbs are your best friend. While dried herbs can work in a pinch, nothing beats the vibrant flavor of fresh parsley. It’s like the difference between a black-and-white photo and a full-color image—fresh herbs bring a brightness and depth that dried just can’t match. So, if you can, opt for fresh parsley to really make those flavors pop.

Essential Equipment Needed

When it comes to whipping up this delightful Lemon Herb Baked Cod, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Think of them as your trusty sidekicks, ready to help you create a meal that’s both delicious and stress-free.

First on the list is a baking sheet. This is where the magic happens, providing a sturdy base for your cod fillets to bake to perfection. If you don’t have one, a shallow roasting pan can work in a pinch, but a baking sheet is ideal for even cooking.

Delicious Variations of Lemon Herb Baked Cod

One of the joys of cooking is the ability to tweak and tailor recipes to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. Lemon Herb Baked Cod is no exception, and with a few simple variations, you can transform this dish into something new and exciting every time you make it.

First up, let’s talk about garlic. If you’re a garlic lover like me, you’ll know that this humble bulb can elevate any dish with its rich, aromatic flavor. Simply mince a couple of cloves and sprinkle them over the cod fillets before baking. The garlic will roast to perfection, infusing the fish with a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the lemon and herbs. It’s like adding a little extra magic to an already enchanting dish.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Lemon Herb Baked Cod, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. This light dinner is versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it easy to tailor to your family’s tastes or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few of my favorite ways to round out this delightful meal.

First up, you can’t go wrong with a simple green salad. Picture this: crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. It’s like a refreshing breeze on a warm day, perfectly complementing the zesty flavors of the cod. Plus, it’s a breeze to throw together, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

FAQs About Lemon Herb Baked Cod

When it comes to cooking Lemon Herb Baked Cod, a few common questions often pop up. Let’s dive into these FAQs to ensure your cooking experience is as smooth as possible.

Can I use frozen cod? Absolutely! Frozen cod is a convenient option, especially if you don’t have fresh fish on hand. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can do this by placing the frozen fillets in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, pat the fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step ensures that your cod bakes evenly and achieves that perfect flaky texture.

Final Thoughts on Lemon Herb Baked Cod

As I wrap up this culinary journey, I can’t help but reflect on the sheer simplicity and delightful flavors of Lemon Herb Baked Cod. It’s one of those recipes that truly embodies the phrase “less is more.” With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a dish that’s not only light and healthy but also bursting with vibrant, fresh flavors. It’s like a little piece of the Mediterranean right in your own kitchen.

Lemon Herb Baked Cod: A Light Dinner Delight!

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 45 reviews

Author: buenos aires run way
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

Lemon Herb Baked Cod is a light and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy dinner. The cod is seasoned with fresh herbs and lemon, making it a bright and flaky delight.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and season with salt and pepper.
Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the fillets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve immediately with additional lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

For a more intense flavor, marinate the cod in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before baking.
This recipe works well with other white fish such as haddock or halibut.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean