Are you ready to impress your family or guests with a delightful culinary experience that’s both simple and elegant? This Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce offers the perfect balance of flavor, health, and ease of preparation. You won’t just appreciate its delightful taste and flaky texture; this dish is quick to make, allowing you to enjoy a sumptuous dinner without the hassle of extensive cooking.
This dish suits various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to fancy gatherings. The flaky cod is paired brilliantly with a zesty lemon-dill sauce, enhancing its natural flavors while adding a refreshing twist. Not only does the dish look beautiful on the plate, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Cod is a lean fish, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for a healthy weeknight meal or treat for special occasions.
If you’re searching for a dish that combines ease of preparation with outstanding flavor, you’ve arrived at the right recipe. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes!
- Healthy Option: Cod is low in calories and high in protein.
- Zesty Flavor: The lemon and dill combination adds freshness and brightness.
- Elegant Presentation: Simple enough for a weeknight yet fancy enough for entertaining.
- Customizable: Easily modify ingredients to suit dietary preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Getting your kitchen ready for cooking is vital for success, particularly with this straightforward Baked Cod recipe. Start by gathering all your ingredients, ensuring you have everything on hand before you begin. You’ll need a few essential tools: a baking sheet, parchment paper (or non-stick spray), and a mixing bowl for the sauce. A whisk will be handy for blending the sauce smoothly and evenly.
It’s essential to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the desired temperature while you prepare the ingredients. This helps the cod to cook evenly while sealing in moisture, resulting in a perfectly flaky fillet. Once the oven is hot, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for creamier texture)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Oven
Start your journey to a delicious meal by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent the cod from sticking. Preparing the oven and baking sheet first ensures everything is set and ready for when you season the cod, resulting in a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Season the Cod
Ensure the cod fillets are patted dry to remove excess moisture. This step helps the seasonings adhere better and contributes to a beautiful golden crust when baked. Next, brush each fillet generously with olive oil and sprinkle them with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika for an extra kick. With the seasoned fillets placed on the baking sheet, they are ready for the oven!
Step 3: Bake the Cod
Now, pop the seasoned cod fillets into your preheated oven and allow them to bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The key indicator of doneness is when the fish flakes easily with a fork, and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is achieved. Keep an eye on the cod as it cooks; the smell will be enticing, and you’ll know you’re in for a treat!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the cod is baking, let’s whip up the zesty lemon-dill sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream if preferred), chopped fresh dill (or dried), lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic if you like a little stronger flavor. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and chill in the refrigerator until your cod is ready to plate.
Step 5: Serve Beautifully
Once your cod is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute. For serving, plate the flaky cod fillet and either spoon the lemon-dill sauce over the top or serve it on the side. Garnish the dish with fresh lemon slices and a sprig of extra dill for that picture-perfect presentation.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the cod with salmon, halibut, or tilapia for different flavors.
- Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a fresh salad for added nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper for heat or herbs de Provence for an aromatic touch.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the cod is fresh and boneless for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to adapt the sauce ingredients to your preference; make it spicier or creamier by adjusting the mayo and mustard ratios.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
- Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors of the fish.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the cod in the olive oil and spices for 30 minutes before cooking.
- To make the sauce more vibrant, add a teaspoon of capers or finely chopped red onion.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 290 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for best results.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
You can use sour cream or any other non-dairy yogurt alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How can I tell if the cod is cooked through?
The cod is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I make the lemon-dill sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until needed.
Conclusion
Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce is undoubtedly a fantastic meal option, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures while remaining easy to prepare. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish checks all the boxes. With minimal effort, you can enjoy healthy dining without compromising on taste. So why not give this dish a try? You’ll appreciate its simplicity and elegance as well as the delicious flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Please let us know your thoughts in the comments, and be sure to share your variations or twist on this recipe!
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Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce is a delightful combination of flaky cod and zesty sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for creamier texture)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start your journey to a delicious meal by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent the cod from sticking. Preparing the oven and baking sheet first ensures everything is set and ready for when you season the cod, resulting in a smooth cooking process.
- Ensure the cod fillets are patted dry to remove excess moisture. This step helps the seasonings adhere better and contributes to a beautiful golden crust when baked. Next, brush each fillet generously with olive oil and sprinkle them with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional paprika for an extra kick. With the seasoned fillets placed on the baking sheet, they are ready for the oven!
- Now, pop the seasoned cod fillets into your preheated oven and allow them to bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The key indicator of doneness is when the fish flakes easily with a fork, and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is achieved. Keep an eye on the cod as it cooks; the smell will be enticing, and you’ll know you’re in for a treat!
- While the cod is baking, let’s whip up the zesty lemon-dill sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream if preferred), chopped fresh dill (or dried), lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic if you like a little stronger flavor. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and fluffy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and chill in the refrigerator until your cod is ready to plate.
- Once your cod is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute. For serving, plate the flaky cod fillet and either spoon the lemon-dill sauce over the top or serve it on the side. Garnish the dish with fresh lemon slices and a sprig of extra dill for that picture-perfect presentation.
Notes
Feel free to adapt the sauce ingredients to your preference; make it spicier or creamier by adjusting the mayo and mustard ratios.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 28 g