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Baked Cod with Garlic and Herbs: A Simple & Delicious Recipe

This Baked Cod with Garlic and Herbs recipe focuses on delivering a flavorful and healthy meal with minimal effort. Cod fillets are generously seasoned with garlic, herbs, and lemon juice, then baked to flaky perfection. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s also elegant enough for a special occasion. The recipe starts with high-quality cod, emphasizing the importance of fresh ingredients for the best flavor. The garlic and herb blend, featuring options like parsley, thyme, and oregano, infuses the cod with aromatic richness. Lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the garlic. The baking process is straightforward, ensuring the cod remains moist and tender. Nutrition information is included, highlighting the recipe’s lean protein content and low calorie count. FAQs address common concerns such as substituting ingredients, storing leftovers, and ensuring the cod is fully cooked. The article concludes with an invitation to share the recipe and connect on social media for more cooking inspiration. From prep to plate, this dish is designed for simplicity and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this baked cod recipe, but here are just a few:

• Effortless Elegance: This dish is simple enough for a weeknight but feels sophisticated enough to serve to guests.
• Healthy & Delicious: Cod is a lean protein, and the garlic and herbs provide a flavorful and healthy seasoning.
• Quick & Easy: From prep to plate, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the herbs and spices to suit your taste.
• Minimal Cleanup: Baking the cod on a single sheet pan keeps cleanup to a minimum.

Ingredients for Perfect Baked Cod

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable baked cod dish:

• Cod Fillets: 4 (6-8 ounce) cod fillets, skin on or off, depending on your preference. Fresh cod is ideal, but frozen (thawed) works too.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons. Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps the herbs adhere to the cod.
• Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons, chopped. A mix of parsley, thyme, oregano, and/or dill works wonderfully.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. Lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Season generously to enhance the natural flavors of the cod.
• Optional: Lemon wedges for serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Cod

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect baked cod:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them to bake evenly and develop a nice crust.
3. Make the Garlic Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, chopped herbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Season the Cod: Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the garlic herb mixture over the cod, spreading it evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake the Cod: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
6. Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.

Tips for Baking the Best Cod

Here are some tips to ensure your baked cod turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking cod can result in dry, tough fillets. Keep a close eye on the cod and remove it from the oven as soon as it flakes easily.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs provide the best flavor. If you only have dried herbs, use about half the amount called for in the recipe.
• Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables to the baking sheet along with the cod for a complete meal. Broccoli, asparagus, and bell peppers are great choices.
• Marinate the Cod: For even more flavor, marinate the cod in the garlic herb mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
• Broil for Extra Color: For a slightly browned top, broil the cod for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Cod

This baked cod is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, carrots, or potatoes.
• Quinoa or Rice: Pair with a simple quinoa or rice pilaf.
• Salad: Enjoy with a fresh garden salad or a Caesar salad.
• Lemon Butter Sauce: Drizzle with a lemon butter sauce for added richness.
• Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Category: Main Course | Method: Baking | Cuisine: American

Nutrition Card

Calories: 200 | Sugar: 1g | Fat: 8g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fiber: 0g | Protein: 30g | Yields: 4 servings

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Make sure to thaw it completely before baking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help it cook more evenly.

What herbs can I use instead of parsley, thyme, and oregano?

You can substitute other fresh herbs like dill, chives, rosemary, or basil. Dried herbs can also be used, but use about half the amount as they are more concentrated in flavor.

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I store leftover baked cod?

Yes, you can store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet with the cod?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers to the baking sheet is a great way to create a complete meal. Just make sure to adjust the baking time as needed, depending on the vegetables you choose.

I’m so glad you’re here. If you enjoyed this recipe or found it helpful, feel free to share it with your friends and family – great food is meant to be shared!

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