This recipe provides instructions for making Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic, a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the delicate taste of cod. Cod fillets are baked in the oven with a bright and aromatic sauce made from lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. The lemon juice adds a zesty and slightly acidic note that complements the mildness of the cod, while the garlic infuses the fish with a savory and pungent flavor. Olive oil helps to keep the fish moist during baking and contributes a subtle richness. The dish is often seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes herbs like parsley or oregano for added freshness and aroma. Baked until flaky and tender, this cod preparation is a healthy and quick meal option that is easy to customize with additional vegetables or served alongside your favorite side dishes. The image shows several white fish fillets, likely cod, baked in a shallow baking dish. The fillets are surrounded by a light-colored sauce and topped with slices of bright yellow lemon, minced garlic, and black pepper. The fish appears flaky and moist, with some browning on the edges. Text below indicates “Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic” and lists “4 (6 oz) cod fillets,” “2 tbsp olive oil,” and “3 cloves garlic, minced” under “Ingredients.”
The primary ingredient is cod fillets, a mild-flavored white fish that flakes easily when cooked.
Lemon is a key component, used both for its juice, which creates a bright and tangy sauce, and often sliced to add a visual element and infuse more lemon flavor during baking.
Garlic, minced, provides a pungent and savory aroma and taste that complements the lemon and fish.
Olive oil is used as the base for the sauce, helping to distribute the flavors and keep the fish moist during baking.
Seasonings are simple but essential. Salt enhances the natural flavor of the cod and the other ingredients. Black pepper adds a mild heat and earthiness.
Optional additions can enhance the dish. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, oregano, or thyme add a fresh, aromatic note. A pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat. A drizzle of white wine can add depth and moisture to the sauce.
The preparation involves arranging the cod fillets in a baking dish. A simple sauce is made by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper (and any optional herbs or spices). This sauce is then poured over the cod fillets, and lemon slices are often placed on top of the fish. The dish is then baked in a preheated oven until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is best served hot, immediately after baking, when the fish is tender and the sauce is flavorful.
The texture is flaky and moist cod.
The flavor profile is a delicate balance of the mild, slightly sweet taste of the cod, the bright, zesty tang of lemon, and the savory, pungent aroma of garlic, all enhanced by the richness of olive oil and simple seasonings.
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a dish of cod fillets baked in the oven with a sauce made from lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, seasoned simply with salt and pepper and often garnished with lemon slices and herbs.
The preparation involves arranging cod in a baking dish, making a lemon-garlic-olive oil sauce, pouring it over the fish, and baking until cooked through.
Ingredients:
- 4 (6 oz) cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or oregano (optional, for garnish)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine (optional)
Equipment:
- Baking dish (large enough to hold the cod fillets in a single layer)
- Small bowl (for mixing sauce)
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Lemon juicer (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the cod from sticking.
- Arrange Cod Fillets: Place the cod fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes and white wine.
- Pour Sauce Over Cod: Pour the lemon garlic sauce evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Add Lemon Slices: Arrange the thin slices of lemon over the top of the cod fillets.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of the cod fillets.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cod is cooked through, remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley or oregano over the fish, if using. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Fish Variations: You can use other mild white fish fillets such as haddock, tilapia, or snapper in place of cod. Adjust baking time accordingly based on the thickness of the fish.
- Vegetable Additions: You can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or zucchini to the baking dish alongside the cod for a complete one-pan meal. Toss the vegetables with some of the lemon garlic sauce before baking.
- Cheese Topping: For a richer dish, you can sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese over the cod during the last few minutes of baking.
- Marinade: For a more intense flavor, you can marinate the cod fillets in the lemon garlic sauce for about 15-20 minutes before baking.
- Herb Infusion: You can infuse the olive oil with garlic by gently heating the oil with the minced garlic in a small saucepan over low heat for a few minutes before using it in the sauce. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic with a side of quinoa, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Enjoy this light and flavorful Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic!