Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

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Looking for a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s both healthy and delicious? This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is the perfect answer. Combining tender cod fillets with zesty lemon, rich garlic, and a delicate spice blend, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking a family meal, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe details and discover how to create this flavorful masterpiece.

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Table of Contents

1. Why Choose Cod for Your Meal?
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
3. Preparing Your Ingredients: Tips and Tricks
4. The Importance of Lemon and Garlic in Cooking
5. Step-by-Step Instructions
6. Perfecting the Searing Technique
7. Baking Cod to Perfection
8. Serving Suggestions
9. Tips for Success
10. Conclusion

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1. Why Choose Cod for Your Meal?

Cod is a versatile, mild-flavored white fish that is a favorite in many kitchens. It’s rich in protein, low in fat, and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Its firm texture makes it perfect for baking, frying, or steaming, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of seasonings.

This recipe highlights cod’s natural flavors while enhancing them with a tangy lemon-garlic sauce and a perfectly seasoned flour coating. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

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2. Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create this delicious Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic:

For the Fish and Coating:

• 1.5 lbs cod fillet pieces (4–6 portions)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ¾ teaspoon sweet Spanish paprika
• ¾ teaspoon ground cumin
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Lemon Sauce:

• 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 5 garlic cloves, minced

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3. Preparing Your Ingredients: Tips and Tricks

• Choose Fresh Cod: Fresh cod is always the best choice for this recipe. Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a mild ocean smell. Frozen cod can be used as well—just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
• Chop Parsley Finely: Finely chopped parsley not only adds flavor but also gives the dish a vibrant, fresh appearance.
• Prepare the Garlic: Use freshly minced garlic for maximum flavor. Pre-minced garlic can lose its potency and freshness over time.

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4. The Importance of Lemon and Garlic in Cooking

Lemon and garlic are culinary powerhouses that enhance the flavor of nearly any dish.

• Lemon: Its acidity balances the richness of the fish, creating a bright, tangy flavor profile.
• Garlic: With its aromatic and savory qualities, garlic complements the mildness of cod, adding depth and complexity.

Together, these ingredients form the backbone of this dish, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

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5. Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is broken down into manageable steps to ensure success, even if you’re new to cooking.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is ready when the fish is prepared for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Sauce

In a shallow bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter. Set aside the minced garlic for later.

Step 3: Make the Flour Mixture

In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, coriander, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Place this next to the lemon sauce for easy assembly.

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6. Perfecting the Searing Technique

Step 4: Coat the Fish

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Dip each fillet into the lemon sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Dredge the fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour.

Step 5: Sear the Cod

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is shimmering, add the fillets.
3. Sear each side for 2 minutes to achieve a golden crust. Remove the skillet from heat.

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7. Baking Cod to Perfection

Step 6: Add the Garlic to the Lemon Sauce

Stir the minced garlic into the remaining lemon sauce. Drizzle this over the seared cod fillets in the skillet.

Step 7: Bake the Cod

1. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. Avoid overcooking to maintain the fish’s tender texture.

Step 8: Broil for Extra Flavor (Optional)

For an added touch, broil the fish for 2–3 minutes to enhance its golden crust.

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8. Serving Suggestions

This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a nutritious touch.
• Rice Pilaf: A light, fluffy rice dish complements the delicate flavors of the cod.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the tangy lemon-garlic sauce.

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9. Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing locks in moisture and adds a delightful crust to the fillets.
• Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: A cast iron skillet transitions seamlessly from stovetop to oven.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Overcooked cod can become dry, so keep an eye on the oven.
• Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preferences.

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10. Conclusion

This Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic is the perfect combination of simplicity and elegance. The mild, flaky cod fillets are elevated by the tangy lemon-garlic sauce and a perfectly seasoned crust. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe checks all the boxes.

The balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and health benefits make this a go-to recipe you’ll want to save and revisit. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of garlic and lemon fill your kitchen. Your taste buds—and your dinner guests—will thank you!

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.

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