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Lemon Herb Baked Cod Fresh and Simple Recipe

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- 4 cod fillets (approximately 6 ounces each) - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - Zest of 1 juicy lemon - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped - Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - Thin lemon slices, for garnish - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) When making Lemon Herb Baked Cod, use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Cod fillets are the star here. Aim for fillets around 6 ounces each. They cook evenly and have a nice texture. Next, grab some extra virgin olive oil. This oil adds richness and helps the flavors blend well. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. The zest gives a punch of citrus that pairs well with cod. Garlic brings warmth and depth to our marinade. Use three cloves, finely minced, for the best flavor. Dried oregano and fresh thyme deliver herbal notes. They are essential to complement the fish. Don’t forget seasoning! Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhance the dish. Adjust these to your taste. Lastly, for garnishes, use thin lemon slices and fresh parsley. They add color and freshness to your finished dish. This simple list of ingredients makes for a delightful meal that is both fresh and easy to prepare. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key to cooking the cod just right. A hot oven helps the fish cook evenly and keeps it tender. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and the zest of one lemon. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Don’t forget a pinch of sea salt and black pepper! This mix creates a tasty herb marinade. Grab a medium baking dish and place 4 cod fillets in a single layer. Make sure the fillets are about 6 ounces each. Pour the herb marinade over the fish. Let every piece get a good coat of flavor. Let the cod marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This step is important. It allows the fish to soak up all those delicious flavors from the marinade. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This keeps the moisture in while baking. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. Once the cod is cooked, take it out of the oven. Garnish with thin lemon slices and fresh parsley. This adds fun color and a fresh taste. Enjoy your Lemon Herb Baked Cod! Choose cod that looks bright and moist. The flesh should be white and slightly translucent. Fresh cod has a mild scent, not fishy. If you can, buy from a trusted fishmonger. Always ask for cod fillets that are firm to the touch. This ensures you get the best quality for your dish. A great marinade makes all the difference. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl. Add minced garlic, oregano, and thyme for flavor. Make sure to season with salt and pepper. Whisk until well mixed. Let the cod sit in this marinade for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. Keeping the cod moist is key. Use aluminum foil to cover the baking dish. This traps steam, preventing the fish from drying out. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last five minutes. Check if it flakes easily with a fork. Garnishes add color and flavor. Use thin lemon slices on top of the cod after baking. Fresh parsley sprinkles give a nice touch. Both add a fresh look and a burst of flavor. Serve on a bed of veggies for a beautiful plate. Don't forget to drizzle any leftover marinade over the dish! Pro Tips Marinating Time: Allow the cod to marinate for at least 20 minutes to fully absorb the flavors of the herbs and lemon. Foil Technique: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the initial baking helps retain moisture, ensuring a tender and juicy fillet. Cooking Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking and to achieve the best texture. Serving Suggestions: Pair the baked cod with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the dish. {{image_4}} You can swap cod for other fish. For a similar taste, try haddock or pollock. These fish also bake well and flake nicely. If you want something bolder, use salmon. Salmon offers a richer flavor and a lovely color. For a lighter dish, consider tilapia or sole. Each fish changes the taste but keeps it fresh and simple. Feel free to change the herbs in the marinade. Instead of oregano, try basil or dill. Each herb brings a unique flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you love garlic, increase the amount for a stronger kick. Experimenting with spices makes the dish your own. Pair your Lemon Herb Baked Cod with delicious sides. Steamed green beans or asparagus add a nice crunch. A fresh garden salad complements the fish well. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa for added texture. Drizzle any leftover herb marinade over your sides for extra flavor. You can store leftover lemon herb baked cod in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days. Keep it cool and avoid heat to maintain flavor. When you want to eat it again, just check for any odd smells or changes in texture. Yes, you can freeze baked cod! First, let it cool completely. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results. To reheat cod, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 1-2 minutes. Check that it’s warmed through before serving. Enjoy your flavorful meal again! You should bake cod for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The fish cooks quickly and becomes flaky. To check if it’s done, use a fork. The flesh should break apart easily. Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can run them under cold water for about 30 minutes. After thawing, follow the same steps in the recipe. Some great sides include: - Steamed vegetables - Garden salad - Quinoa or rice - Roasted potatoes These sides complement the fish well and add color to your plate. To tell when cod is fully cooked, look for the flesh to turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it is still translucent or feels tough, it needs more time. Always trust your fork; it’s your best friend in the kitchen! We explored how to make Lemon Herb Baked Cod with fresh ingredients. You learned the key steps, from preheating the oven to garnishing your dish. I shared practical tips to pick the best cod and ensure it stays moist while baking. You also discovered fun ways to customize your meal and important storage tips. Cooking can be simple and enjoyable. With these steps, you're ready to create a tasty and healthy dish for any occasion. Happy cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re looking for an easy, tasty meal, you’re in the right place! This Lemon Herb Baked Cod recipe is fresh and simple. You’ll love how quick it is to make and how great it tastes. With just a few ingredients like cod fillets, olive oil, and herbs, you can have dinner ready in no time. Let’s dive into the steps that bring this dish to life!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh and Zesty Flavor: The combination of lemon, herbs, and garlic creates a bright and refreshing taste that enhances the natural flavor of the cod.
  2. Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe is simple to follow and can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
  3. Healthy and Nutritious: Cod is a lean source of protein and packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish a healthy choice for seafood lovers.
  4. Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the lemon and parsley garnishes make this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 4 cod fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

– Zest of 1 juicy lemon

– 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped

– Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

– Thin lemon slices, for garnish

– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

When making Lemon Herb Baked Cod, use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Cod fillets are the star here. Aim for fillets around 6 ounces each. They cook evenly and have a nice texture.

Next, grab some extra virgin olive oil. This oil adds richness and helps the flavors blend well. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. The zest gives a punch of citrus that pairs well with cod.

Garlic brings warmth and depth to our marinade. Use three cloves, finely minced, for the best flavor. Dried oregano and fresh thyme deliver herbal notes. They are essential to complement the fish.

Don’t forget seasoning! Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhance the dish. Adjust these to your taste.

Lastly, for garnishes, use thin lemon slices and fresh parsley. They add color and freshness to your finished dish. This simple list of ingredients makes for a delightful meal that is both fresh and easy to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key to cooking the cod just right. A hot oven helps the fish cook evenly and keeps it tender.

Preparing the Herb Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and the zest of one lemon. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Don’t forget a pinch of sea salt and black pepper! This mix creates a tasty herb marinade.

Arranging Cod in Baking Dish

Grab a medium baking dish and place 4 cod fillets in a single layer. Make sure the fillets are about 6 ounces each. Pour the herb marinade over the fish. Let every piece get a good coat of flavor.

Marinating the Cod

Let the cod marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This step is important. It allows the fish to soak up all those delicious flavors from the marinade.

Baking the Cod

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This keeps the moisture in while baking. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes.

Garnishing and Serving

Once the cod is cooked, take it out of the oven. Garnish with thin lemon slices and fresh parsley. This adds fun color and a fresh taste. Enjoy your Lemon Herb Baked Cod!

Tips & Tricks

Selecting Fresh Cod

Choose cod that looks bright and moist. The flesh should be white and slightly translucent. Fresh cod has a mild scent, not fishy. If you can, buy from a trusted fishmonger. Always ask for cod fillets that are firm to the touch. This ensures you get the best quality for your dish.

Perfecting the Marinade

A great marinade makes all the difference. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl. Add minced garlic, oregano, and thyme for flavor. Make sure to season with salt and pepper. Whisk until well mixed. Let the cod sit in this marinade for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in.

Ensuring Moisture During Baking

Keeping the cod moist is key. Use aluminum foil to cover the baking dish. This traps steam, preventing the fish from drying out. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last five minutes. Check if it flakes easily with a fork.

Enhancing Flavor with Garnishes

Garnishes add color and flavor. Use thin lemon slices on top of the cod after baking. Fresh parsley sprinkles give a nice touch. Both add a fresh look and a burst of flavor. Serve on a bed of veggies for a beautiful plate. Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover marinade over the dish!

Pro Tips

  1. Marinating Time: Allow the cod to marinate for at least 20 minutes to fully absorb the flavors of the herbs and lemon.
  2. Foil Technique: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the initial baking helps retain moisture, ensuring a tender and juicy fillet.
  3. Cooking Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking and to achieve the best texture.
  4. Serving Suggestions: Pair the baked cod with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the dish.

Variations

Using Different Fish Types

You can swap cod for other fish. For a similar taste, try haddock or pollock. These fish also bake well and flake nicely. If you want something bolder, use salmon. Salmon offers a richer flavor and a lovely color. For a lighter dish, consider tilapia or sole. Each fish changes the taste but keeps it fresh and simple.

Modifying Herbs and Spices

Feel free to change the herbs in the marinade. Instead of oregano, try basil or dill. Each herb brings a unique flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you love garlic, increase the amount for a stronger kick. Experimenting with spices makes the dish your own.

Serving Suggestions (sides and salads)

Pair your Lemon Herb Baked Cod with delicious sides. Steamed green beans or asparagus add a nice crunch. A fresh garden salad complements the fish well. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa for added texture. Drizzle any leftover herb marinade over your sides for extra flavor.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

You can store leftover lemon herb baked cod in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days. Keep it cool and avoid heat to maintain flavor. When you want to eat it again, just check for any odd smells or changes in texture.

Freezing Baked Cod

Yes, you can freeze baked cod! First, let it cool completely. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat cod, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 1-2 minutes. Check that it’s warmed through before serving. Enjoy your flavorful meal again!

FAQs

How long should I bake cod?

You should bake cod for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The fish cooks quickly and becomes flaky. To check if it’s done, use a fork. The flesh should break apart easily.

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can run them under cold water for about 30 minutes. After thawing, follow the same steps in the recipe.

What are the best sides to serve with Lemon Herb Baked Cod?

Some great sides include:

– Steamed vegetables

– Garden salad

– Quinoa or rice

– Roasted potatoes

These sides complement the fish well and add color to your plate.

How can I tell when cod is fully cooked?

To tell when cod is fully cooked, look for the flesh to turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it is still translucent or feels tough, it needs more time. Always trust your fork; it’s your best friend in the kitchen!

We explored how to make Lemon Herb Baked Cod with fresh ingredients. You learned the key steps, from preheating the oven to garnishing your dish. I shared practical tips to pick the best cod and ensure it stays moist while baking. You also discovered fun ways to customize your meal and important storage tips.

Cooking can be simple and enjoyable. With these steps, you’re ready to create a tasty and healthy dish for any occasion. Happy cookin

- 4 cod fillets (approximately 6 ounces each) - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice - Zest of 1 juicy lemon - 3 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped - Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste - Thin lemon slices, for garnish - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) When making Lemon Herb Baked Cod, use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Cod fillets are the star here. Aim for fillets around 6 ounces each. They cook evenly and have a nice texture. Next, grab some extra virgin olive oil. This oil adds richness and helps the flavors blend well. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. The zest gives a punch of citrus that pairs well with cod. Garlic brings warmth and depth to our marinade. Use three cloves, finely minced, for the best flavor. Dried oregano and fresh thyme deliver herbal notes. They are essential to complement the fish. Don’t forget seasoning! Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhance the dish. Adjust these to your taste. Lastly, for garnishes, use thin lemon slices and fresh parsley. They add color and freshness to your finished dish. This simple list of ingredients makes for a delightful meal that is both fresh and easy to prepare. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key to cooking the cod just right. A hot oven helps the fish cook evenly and keeps it tender. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and the zest of one lemon. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Don’t forget a pinch of sea salt and black pepper! This mix creates a tasty herb marinade. Grab a medium baking dish and place 4 cod fillets in a single layer. Make sure the fillets are about 6 ounces each. Pour the herb marinade over the fish. Let every piece get a good coat of flavor. Let the cod marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This step is important. It allows the fish to soak up all those delicious flavors from the marinade. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This keeps the moisture in while baking. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. Once the cod is cooked, take it out of the oven. Garnish with thin lemon slices and fresh parsley. This adds fun color and a fresh taste. Enjoy your Lemon Herb Baked Cod! Choose cod that looks bright and moist. The flesh should be white and slightly translucent. Fresh cod has a mild scent, not fishy. If you can, buy from a trusted fishmonger. Always ask for cod fillets that are firm to the touch. This ensures you get the best quality for your dish. A great marinade makes all the difference. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl. Add minced garlic, oregano, and thyme for flavor. Make sure to season with salt and pepper. Whisk until well mixed. Let the cod sit in this marinade for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. Keeping the cod moist is key. Use aluminum foil to cover the baking dish. This traps steam, preventing the fish from drying out. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last five minutes. Check if it flakes easily with a fork. Garnishes add color and flavor. Use thin lemon slices on top of the cod after baking. Fresh parsley sprinkles give a nice touch. Both add a fresh look and a burst of flavor. Serve on a bed of veggies for a beautiful plate. Don't forget to drizzle any leftover marinade over the dish! Pro Tips Marinating Time: Allow the cod to marinate for at least 20 minutes to fully absorb the flavors of the herbs and lemon. Foil Technique: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the initial baking helps retain moisture, ensuring a tender and juicy fillet. Cooking Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking and to achieve the best texture. Serving Suggestions: Pair the baked cod with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the dish. {{image_4}} You can swap cod for other fish. For a similar taste, try haddock or pollock. These fish also bake well and flake nicely. If you want something bolder, use salmon. Salmon offers a richer flavor and a lovely color. For a lighter dish, consider tilapia or sole. Each fish changes the taste but keeps it fresh and simple. Feel free to change the herbs in the marinade. Instead of oregano, try basil or dill. Each herb brings a unique flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you love garlic, increase the amount for a stronger kick. Experimenting with spices makes the dish your own. Pair your Lemon Herb Baked Cod with delicious sides. Steamed green beans or asparagus add a nice crunch. A fresh garden salad complements the fish well. You can also serve it over a bed of quinoa for added texture. Drizzle any leftover herb marinade over your sides for extra flavor. You can store leftover lemon herb baked cod in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days. Keep it cool and avoid heat to maintain flavor. When you want to eat it again, just check for any odd smells or changes in texture. Yes, you can freeze baked cod! First, let it cool completely. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results. To reheat cod, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish and heat it for 1-2 minutes. Check that it’s warmed through before serving. Enjoy your flavorful meal again! You should bake cod for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The fish cooks quickly and becomes flaky. To check if it’s done, use a fork. The flesh should break apart easily. Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can run them under cold water for about 30 minutes. After thawing, follow the same steps in the recipe. Some great sides include: - Steamed vegetables - Garden salad - Quinoa or rice - Roasted potatoes These sides complement the fish well and add color to your plate. To tell when cod is fully cooked, look for the flesh to turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it is still translucent or feels tough, it needs more time. Always trust your fork; it’s your best friend in the kitchen! We explored how to make Lemon Herb Baked Cod with fresh ingredients. You learned the key steps, from preheating the oven to garnishing your dish. I shared practical tips to pick the best cod and ensure it stays moist while baking. You also discovered fun ways to customize your meal and important storage tips. Cooking can be simple and enjoyable. With these steps, you're ready to create a tasty and healthy dish for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Lemon Herb Baked Cod

A flavorful baked cod dish infused with lemon and herbs.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets cod fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 lemon Zest of 1 juicy lemon
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • to taste Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • as needed Thin lemon slices, for garnish
  • as needed Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked cod with a tender texture.
  • In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, fresh thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will create a vibrant herb marinade that infuses flavor into the fish.
  • Take a medium-sized baking dish and arrange the cod fillets in a single layer. Pour the herb marinade evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re well-coated.
  • Allow the cod to marinate at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavors absorbed by the fish.
  • After marinating, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, which will help keep the moisture in and prevent the fish from drying out during baking.
  • Transfer the covered baking dish to the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer a slightly crispy top, optionally remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
  • Once cooked, remove the cod from the oven and garnish generously with thin lemon slices and freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

For a delightful presentation, serve the baked cod on a vibrant bed of steamed seasonal vegetables or alongside a crisp garden salad. Drizzle any leftover herb marinade over the dish for an extra burst of flavor.
Keyword baked fish, cod, herbs, lemon

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