The tantalizing aroma of baked cod infused with zesty lemon and fresh herbs wafts through your kitchen. Picture this: tender fish flakes that melt in your mouth while bright citrus dances on your palate. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius without having to don a chef’s hat.
This Lemon Herb Cod recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing everyone together at the table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this dish never fails to impress. Trust me; the flavor explosion is worth every moment spent in the kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish offers an effortless cooking experience while delivering vibrant flavors and colors on your plate
- The quick preparation time means you’ll be dining in no time, making it perfect for busy nights
- Plus, its versatility allows for endless side options like veggies or rice
I still remember my sister’s reaction the first time I served this cod; she declared it “life-changing” between mouthfuls!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cod Fillets: Choose firm fillets; they should smell like the ocean and not overly fishy.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Opt for freshly squeezed juice over bottled for that bright flavor kick.
- Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil; it enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; you’ll want about three cloves minced finely.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Dill): Use a mix of parsley and dill for balanced herbal notes that brighten every bite.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings can elevate the taste; don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures an evenly cooked cod with that lovely golden finish.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent any sticking. You want your cod to glide right out when it’s done!
Mix the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, and dill until well combined. The aroma should be irresistible already!
Coat the Cod Fillets: Place the fresh cod fillets in the baking dish and generously brush them with your zesty marinade mixture. Don’t skimp—let those flavors soak in!
Bake Until Flaky: Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it—nobody likes dry fish!
Serve and Enjoy!: Once done, remove from oven and garnish with extra herbs if desired. Serve hot with a side of veggies or rice for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Cooking this simple yet stunning Lemon Herb Cod will become one of your go-to dinners! Enjoy every bite as flavors burst in harmony!
You Must Know
- Fresh herbs elevate the flavor of Lemon Herb Cod, creating a vibrant dish
- Choosing high-quality cod ensures a tender texture and delightful taste
- Don’t rush the cooking process; patience delivers perfectly flaky fish that melts in your mouth
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the cod with lemon and herbs while preheating your oven. Sear the fish on both sides in a hot pan before finishing in the oven for a perfectly tender result.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap lemon with lime for a zesty twist or add garlic for an extra kick. Toss in some cherry tomatoes or olives to create a colorful side dish that complements the cod beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Lemon Herb Cod in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain its delicate texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or dill for maximum flavor impact
- Ensure your pan is hot enough to sear without steaming the fish
- Always check for doneness; cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork
Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of dinner parties where friends raved about how delicious the Lemon Herb Cod was—proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable moments.
FAQ
How do I know when the cod is cooked?
The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s properly thawed before cooking for even results.
What side dishes pair well with Lemon Herb Cod?
Serve it with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete, balanced meal.
Lemon Herb Cod
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Herb Cod is a light and zesty dish that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy vibrant flavors with every bite!
Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cod fillets in the baking dish and brush generously with the marinade.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using lime juice instead of lemon.
- Pair with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 248
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg