If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dinner, this baked cod with lemon and garlic is a must-try. With tender, flaky fish infused with citrus and herbs, it’s the perfect balance of fresh and comforting. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is easy enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for guests.
Irresistible Lemon Garlic Baked Cod – Light, Flavorful & Foolproof!
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
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What I Like About this Recipe
- Light and healthy – High in protein, low in fat, and packed with omega-3s.
- Fast and easy – Just 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Simple ingredients – Nothing fancy, just fresh, delicious flavors.
- Versatile – Serve it with roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad
What is this recipe?
This baked cod with lemon and garlic is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring tender white fish baked with a bright, garlicky lemon sauce. A Mediterranean-inspired favorite that’s both nutritious and delicious!
Where does it come from?
Cod is a staple in Mediterranean and coastal cuisines, prized for its mild flavor and firm texture. This preparation, using lemon, olive oil, and garlic, is a traditional way to enhance its natural taste while keeping it moist and flaky.
Ingredients
Lemon Sauce (Marinade) Ingredients
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
- Cod fillets – 4 pieces (about 6 oz each)
- Coating – flour, ground pepper, sweet Spanish paprika and cumin, one whisked egg
- Olive oil – 3 tbsp
- Butter – 2 tbsp
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Lemon juice – 2 tbsp, freshly squeezed
- Lemon zest – 1 tsp
- Paprika – ½ tsp
- Dried oregano – 1 tsp
- Salt – ½ tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Fresh coriander or parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Sear the cod: First, dip it in a whisked egg, then coat it in dry-mix flour and sear each side for about two minutes in hot olive oil.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. ❗️Mind the quantity of lemon juice; a bit too much can ruin the dish.
- Season the cod – Place cod fillets in the baking dish and brush generously with the lemon-garlic mixture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary based on fillet thickness.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides. I used sauteed assorted mushrooms and one good tomato.
Irresistible Lemon Garlic Baked Cod – I served it with tomatoes and sauteed assorted mushrooms
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
Suggestions for Serving
- Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, a fresh Mediterranean salad, or garlic mashed potatoes.
- Drizzle with extra lemon juice or a light yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
Tips and ideas
- Do not dismiss frozen cod. While fresh is always better for texture, cod is fished and instantly frozen on the ship. We don´t know how long “fresh” cod has been in the shop since it was thawed.
- Swap in other white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia if cod isn’t available.
- Make it spicy by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Don’t overcook! Cod is done when it flakes easily—keep an eye on it.
Irresistible Lemon Garlic Baked Cod – Light, Flavorful & Foolproof!
Credit Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
Irresistible lemon garlic baked cod FAQ
1. Can I make this with frozen cod?
Yes, just thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before baking.
2. How do I know when the cod is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Can I use butter instead of olive oil?
Absolutely! Butter adds richness, while olive oil keeps it healthier.
4. What other seasonings work well?
Try cumin, thyme, or smoked paprika for different flavor profiles.
5. Can I cook this in a pan instead of baking?
Yes! Sear it in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes, but it’s best eaten fresh. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.
7. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
9. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Definitely! Zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers bake well with the cod.
10. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors perfectly.
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Irresistible Lemon Garlic Baked Cod – Light, Flavorful & Foolproof!
Hover the mouse over number of servings to get your desired amount.
Ingredients
- 4 6 oz Cod fillet
Coating
- .3 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 Egg whisked
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- .5 tsp Ground pepper
- 1 tsp Sweet Spanish paprika
Lemon Sauce Marinade
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- .5 tsp Sweet Spanish paprika
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- .5 tsp Salt
- .5 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Coriander or parsley, if you like
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Sear the cod: First, dip it in a whisked egg, then coat it in dry-mix flour and sear each side for about two minutes in hot olive oil.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. ❗️Mind the quantity of lemon juice; a bit too much can ruin the dish
- Season the cod – Place cod fillets in the baking dish and brush generously with the lemon-garlic mixture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary based on fillet thickness.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides. I used sauteed assorted mushrooms and one good tomato.
Nutrition
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