If you have a soft spot for fresh, flavorful seafood that’s easy to prepare yet feels special, you are going to love this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe. It takes just a handful of simple ingredients — like bright lemon, fragrant garlic, and flaky cod — and turns them into a light, satisfying meal that is perfect any night of the week. This dish brings together the zesty tang of lemon and the warm, savory notes of garlic in a way that feels both clean and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a knockout that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this stunning Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe, you only need a few key ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering fresh, balanced flavors and an inviting texture. These essentials are easy to find, and their simplicity is what makes the dish shine.
- Cod fillets: Fresh or thawed, about 6 ounces each, they provide a flaky, mild base perfect for absorbing bright flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the cod moist while baking.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and depth that complements the fish perfectly.
- Lemon, zested and juiced: The star ingredient giving that fresh, citrusy punch that brightens the whole dish.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of herbaceous brightness and color, but dried works too if you don’t have fresh on hand.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- Lemon slices: For garnishing — they look beautiful and add a little extra zing at serving.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s fully heated and ready to go. Line your baking dish or sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy, and you want a smooth cooking surface for your cod fillets.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Garlic Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. This simple but flavorful marinade is what gives the cod its bright, savory character—make sure you mix it well to blend the flavors fully.
Step 3: Prepare the Cod Fillets
Pat your cod fillets dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture is essential to getting a good bake and making sure the marinade clings to each piece. Place the fillets neatly in your prepared dish, leaving a bit of space between each one for even cooking.
Step 4: Apply the Marinade and Add Lemon Slices
Brush the lemon garlic mixture generously over the top of each fillet so every bite bursts with flavor. Then, arrange thin lemon slices on top of the fish. They not only add gorgeous visual appeal but also infuse the cod with an extra layer of citrus aroma as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfectly Flaky
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven. You’ll know it’s done when the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This relatively quick cooking time keeps the cod moist and tender, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
To finish, sprinkle on some extra chopped parsley and a few fresh lemon slices. The vibrant green and bright yellow add freshness and an inviting pop of color that makes this dish look as good as it tastes. Plus, a little extra lemon juice squeezed on top right before serving amplifies the zesty kick.
Side Dishes
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe pairs wonderfully with a range of sides. Light, fluffy rice or quinoa soaked in lemon juice complements the fish beautifully, while steamed seasonal vegetables bring a fresh crunch. For something heartier, roasted potatoes or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette both make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, consider serving each cod fillet on a bed of herbed couscous or alongside a vibrant ratatouille. You can even drizzle a bit of garlic-infused olive oil over the platter for added luxury. Presentation can turn this everyday meal into a stunning main course for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. The fish keeps well for up to two days, making it a great option for quick lunches or light dinners the next day.
Freezing
Freezing baked cod is possible but not ideal for maintaining the delicate texture. If you want to freeze it, place cooled fillets in a sealed freezer-safe container or bag. Use within one month for best quality, and thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, use a low oven temperature around 275°F (135°C) to gently warm the cod without drying it out. Alternatively, cover the dish with foil and warm in the microwave in short bursts, checking often to avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of lemon juice or olive oil before reheating helps retain moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before starting. This will prevent excess water from diluting the flavors and ensure your fish bakes evenly.
What can I substitute for fresh parsley?
If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley works well too. Use about one teaspoon of dried in place of one tablespoon fresh. You can also try other herbs like dill or chives for a slightly different but delicious twist.
Is it necessary to use lemon zest and juice?
Yes, both add distinct layers of lemon flavor — zest brings an intense citrus aroma, while juice offers bright acidity. Together, they make this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe pop with freshness.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Usually, this happens after 12 to 15 minutes in a 400°F oven. Avoid overcooking to keep the texture tender and juicy.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the lemon garlic mixture will give the dish a subtle heat that complements the bright flavors nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe is one of those surprisingly effortless dishes that feels like a real treat every time you make it. Its simple ingredients come together in a way that’s fresh, flavorful, and downright delicious. So go ahead, gather your favorites, and enjoy a meal that’s perfect whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen too.
Print
Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a simple, flavorful, and healthy seafood dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Tender cod fillets are seasoned with a zesty mixture of lemon, garlic, and fresh parsley, then baked to flaky perfection. The bright citrus and herb flavors beautifully complement the mild, delicate fish, making it a delicious and light entree ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Marinade/Sauce
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Extra parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking dish or sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Make the lemon garlic mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will infuse the cod with vibrant, tangy flavors.
- Prepare the cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to ensure better adherence of the seasoning. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and brush them generously with the lemon garlic mixture. Arrange lemon slices on top of the fillets to add extra citrus aroma and flavor during baking.
- Bake the fish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know the cod is done when it becomes opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork, ensuring a tender and moist texture.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven and garnish with extra chopped parsley and additional lemon slices for a fresh and attractive presentation. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cod fillets and pat them dry before seasoning to enhance flavor absorption.
- If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the amount of minced garlic to 1-2 cloves.
- Feel free to swap fresh parsley with dried parsley if fresh is not available, adjusting quantities accordingly.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
