Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a light, flavorful Mediterranean main course featuring tender cod fillets infused with bright lemon, aromatic garlic, and a hint of paprika. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and offers a deliciously moist and flaky texture with a fresh herb garnish to brighten every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the cod from sticking.
- Prepare Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then place them evenly in the baking dish.
- Make Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Coat Fillets: Spoon the marinade evenly over each cod fillet, ensuring thorough coating to infuse flavor throughout the fish.
- Bake: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven, sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley, and serve garnished with lemon slices to add a fresh citrus brightness.
Notes
- For a crispier top, place the cod under the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve alongside rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad to complete your meal.
- Ensure not to overcook the fish to maintain its tender, flaky texture.
