Name: Baked Lemon Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup butter, cut into small cubes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ lbs cod loin fillet, dried with paper towels; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 garlic cloves, finely minced; 1 small lemon, thinly sliced; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

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Are you looking for a delightful seafood dish that combines zest and simplicity? Look no further than this mouthwatering Baked Lemon Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce! This dish is not only a feast for the senses with its zesty lemon flavor and aromatic garlic, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. The buttery cod fillet bakes to perfection, delivering moist and flaky bites that will leave you craving for more. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side of rice or steamed vegetables, creating a complete meal with minimal effort.

This Baked Lemon Garlic Cod stands out due to its lightness and vibrant combination of flavors. The tangy lemon juice and savory garlic create an irresistible sauce that coats the fish beautifully. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe highlights the natural flavors of cod, elevating it to a luxurious dish that anyone can master in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a family dinner, this dish is bound to impress your guests and make your taste buds dance with joy!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Lemon Garlic Cod

Light and Flavorful: The zesty lemon and savory garlic bring out the best in the cod without overwhelming its delicate taste.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious seafood dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Versatile Pairings: This dish pairs perfectly with your favorite sides, like rice or crisp vegetables.
Nutritious: Cod is low in calories and full of protein, making it a healthy dinner choice.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making this scrumptious Baked Lemon Garlic Cod, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. First and foremost, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Having your oven at the correct temperature will ensure that the cod cooks evenly, resulting in a tender and flaky texture.

Next, you will need a greased baking dish to hold your cod fillets. A 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe. Make sure to have a bowl ready to mix your flavorful sauce – a medium-sized mixing bowl will suffice. As you prepare ingredients, having measuring spoons, a cutting board, and a sharp knife on hand will make your preparation smoother, especially for slicing the lemon and mincing the garlic. Keep a paper towel handy too; it will help you blot the cod fillets before seasoning them.

Ingredients

4 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup butter, cut into small cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 ½ lbs cod loin fillet, dried with paper towels
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 small lemon, thinly sliced
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

The first step to creating this delicious dish is to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This initial step is crucial as it ensures that the cod cooks evenly and thoroughly, providing a perfectly baked fish. Preheating allows the oven to reach the desired temperature before you put in the cod, resulting in a quicker cooking time.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets

Once your oven is preheated, take your cod loin fillets and lightly blot them with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes even cooking. Next, season both sides of the cod fillets generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the fish. Now, place the seasoned cod fillets into a greased baking dish, making sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 3: Create the Flavorful Sauce

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir to mix and taste. If desired, you can adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon juice. This mixture will serve as a rich, aromatic sauce that will enhance the fish and keep it moist during the baking process.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Carefully pour the prepared sauce over the cod fillets, ensuring that each piece is well-coated in the flavorful mixture. Then, scatter the small cubes of butter evenly over the cod. As the fish bakes, the butter will melt, creating a luscious sauce that enriches the flavor. To finish, lay thin slices of lemon on top of the cod for added zesty flavor and visual appeal. Now, it’s time to place your baking dish in the preheated oven.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Let the cod bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Once it’s finished, take the dish out of the oven, and if you’re using it, sprinkle some chopped parsley for freshness and color. Serve your delightful Baked Lemon Garlic Cod hot with a side of rice or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal!

Variations

Protein: Consider swapping out the cod for other flaky fish like haddock, tilapia, or even salmon for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: Add seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini on the side, or even lay them alongside the fish for a one-pan meal.
Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful kick to the dish.

Cooking Notes

Make sure your cod fillets are of high quality—fresh or vacuum-packed frozen cod will provide the best results.
If you prefer a more robust flavor, marinate the cod in the lemon-garlic mixture for about 30 minutes before baking to deepen the taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the baked cod with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious buttery sauce.
For a low-carb option, pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a healthy meal.

Tips

To ensure perfectly cooked cod, check the internal temperature with a food thermometer; it should reach 145°F (63°C).
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but note that the fish is best enjoyed fresh.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 380 kcal per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just be sure to thaw it completely before preparing the dish to ensure even cooking.

What can I substitute for lemon juice?

If you don’t have lemon juice, you could use lime juice or vinegar for a similar tangy flavor.

How do I know when the cod is done cooking?

The cod is done when it becomes opaque and flaky. A fork should easily break apart the flesh, indicating that it’s fully cooked.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the cod and sauce ahead, but it’s best to bake it right before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Baked Lemon Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce is a delightful easy-to-make dish that can elevate any weeknight dinner to something special. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the complex flavors that come together so beautifully. We invite you to try this recipe and experience the juicy, buttery cod for yourself. Whether served alone or with your favorite sides, we believe this dish will become a staple in your home. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any variations you try in the comments below! Happy cooking!