Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs

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Introduction

When it comes to healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dinners, few dishes beat the simplicity and deliciousness of baked cod with lemon and herbs. This recipe combines tender, flaky cod fillets with the fresh zest of lemon and aromatic herbs, making for a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, baked cod with lemon and herbs offers a wonderful balance of flavors, all while being incredibly easy to prepare.

Cod is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, as it’s rich in protein and low in fat, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Paired with the brightness of lemon and the fragrance of fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, this dish becomes a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or looking for a quick and healthy dinner option, this recipe is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll explore why baked cod with lemon and herbs should be a staple in your cooking routine, provide a detailed step-by-step guide on how to prepare it, and offer some helpful tips and variations to suit your taste. Additionally, we will provide alternatives for those following a halal diet, ensuring that this meal is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Light and Healthy: Cod is a lean source of protein, and this dish is low in calories, making it ideal for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor.
  • Bright and Refreshing Flavors: The combination of lemon and fresh herbs creates a vibrant, refreshing flavor profile that complements the delicate taste of cod.
  • Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this baked cod recipe is quick and convenient, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Versatile: The recipe can be customized with different herbs or seasonings to suit your preferences, allowing you to make this dish your own.
  • Halal-Friendly: This recipe contains no pork, bacon, or wine, making it suitable for those following a halal diet.

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Total Time: 35 minutes (15 minutes for prep, 20 minutes for baking)
  • Servings: This recipe serves 4, though it can easily be adjusted to accommodate more or fewer people.
  • Nutrition Facts (per serving):
    • Calories: 220
    • Protein: 25g
    • Carbs: 5g
    • Fat: 12g
    • Fiber: 1g

Ingredients

For the Cod:

  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each): Fresh or frozen cod works for this recipe. Make sure to thaw frozen fillets before baking.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps the seasoning stick to the fish.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the cod fillets.
  • 1 lemon: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness, and lemon zest enhances the citrus flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic adds an aromatic punch.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish and added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme: Adds a fragrant, earthy note that pairs wonderfully with cod.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a bit of smoky heat, balancing the fresh and zesty flavors.

For the Herb Butter:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Softened to blend with the herbs.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: To enhance the lemon flavor in the butter.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Chopped finely for the butter mixture.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme: Adds additional herbaceous notes to the butter.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: To add a slight tang and depth to the butter sauce.
  • Pinch of salt: To season the butter.

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley: For additional garnish and a pop of color.
  • Lemon slices: For serving or garnishing.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE OVEN AND COD FILLETS

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking cod, ensuring it cooks evenly and remains tender.
  2. Prepare the Cod: Place your cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil. If you’re using frozen cod, make sure it’s fully thawed and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Season the fillets generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  3. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the fillets to ensure they stay moist and to help the seasoning adhere.

SECOND STEP: MAKE THE HERB BUTTER

  1. Prepare the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, chopped parsley, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle depth of flavor, while the fresh herbs enhance the overall taste.
  2. Apply the Herb Butter: Once the butter mixture is ready, spread a spoonful of the herb butter evenly over each cod fillet. Make sure the fillets are fully coated in the butter, which will melt during baking, keeping the fish moist and flavorful.

THIRD STEP: BAKE THE COD

  1. Bake the Cod: Place the baking sheet with the prepared cod fillets into the preheated oven. Bake the cod for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The fish should flake easily when tested with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  2. Add Garlic and Lemon: During the last 5 minutes of baking, scatter minced garlic around the fillets, and add thin lemon slices on top of the fish. This will infuse additional lemon flavor and create a fragrant aroma.
  3. Check for Doneness: Make sure the cod is cooked through but still tender. It should be opaque and flaky when gently tested with a fork.

FOURTH STEP: GARNISH AND SERVE

  1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: After the cod has finished baking, remove the fillets from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional lemon slices for a fresh and vibrant presentation.
  2. Serve Immediately: Baked cod with lemon and herbs is best served immediately while the fish is still warm. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs

Baked cod with lemon and herbs is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for pairing it:

1. Serve with Roasted Vegetables

Pair the cod with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or zucchini. The earthy flavors of roasted vegetables complement the delicate fish and add texture to the meal. For added flavor, drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them in the oven.

2. Serve with Rice or Quinoa

A bed of fluffy rice or quinoa makes an excellent base for the cod fillets. The mild flavors of rice or quinoa allow the cod to shine while soaking up the juices and herb butter.

3. Pair with a Light Salad

A light, refreshing salad works wonderfully as a side to balance the richness of the cod. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette, or a Mediterranean-style salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and olives for added flavor.

4. Serve with Mashed Potatoes

For a heartier meal, serve the baked cod with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth potatoes pair well with the tender fish, making for a comforting dish.

Additional Tips

  1. Choosing the Right Cod: Look for fresh, sustainably caught cod fillets when possible. If using frozen cod, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
  2. Customize the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as basil, rosemary, or oregano, depending on your preference. Each herb will bring a unique twist to the dish.
  3. Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning or mix them into the herb butter for a spicy kick.
  4. Lemon Zest for Extra Flavor: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the herb butter mixture.

Recipe Variations

While baked cod with lemon and herbs is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize the dish:

1. Add a Crust: For added texture, try coating the cod fillets with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese before baking. This will create a crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender fish.

2. Use Different Fish: While cod is a fantastic choice for this recipe, you can also use other white fish like tilapia, haddock, or sole. These fish will work equally well with the lemon and herb flavors.

3. Add a Creamy Sauce: For a richer dish, consider adding a creamy sauce, such as a lemon butter sauce or a garlic cream sauce, to drizzle over the baked cod fillets before serving.

Freezing and Storage

If you have leftovers, baked cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the cod in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Cod can also be frozen, though it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap the raw, seasoned cod fillets tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw the fillets overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Special Equipment

While you don’t need many special tools to make baked cod with lemon and herbs, the following kitchen essentials will make the process easier:

  • Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
  • Mixing Bowls: For combining the herb butter and other seasonings.
  • Fish Spatula: To gently lift the cod fillets from the baking sheet without breaking them.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing lemon and chopping herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen cod?
    Yes, frozen cod works well for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
  2. Can I substitute the Dijon mustard?
    Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the Dijon mustard or substitute it with whole-grain mustard for a different flavor.
  3. What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
    You can substitute dried herbs, though fresh herbs will provide the best flavor. Use 1/3 the amount of dried herbs as the fresh ones listed in the recipe.
  4. Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet?
    Yes, you can add vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet for a one-pan meal. Just be sure to cut them to similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Conclusion

Baked cod with lemon and herbs is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender cod, fragrant herbs, and bright lemon creates a meal that’s both flavorful and light. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this dish will be a hit with family and friends. Simple yet satisfying, baked cod with lemon and herbs is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Try it today for a taste of the sea with a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors.

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