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Easy Oven-Baked Cod with Lemon Slices Recipe

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  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Easy Oven-Baked Cod with Lemon Slices is a fresh and simple seafood dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Tender cod fillets are seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, topped with bright lemon slices, and baked to flaky perfection in the oven. Garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, this recipe delivers a light, flavorful meal that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.


Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 1.5 pounds cod fillets (skinless and boneless, fresh)

Seasonings and Oils

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (high-quality extra virgin)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked)

Other

  • 2 large fresh lemons (sliced into thin rounds)
  • 0.5 cup fresh herbs (chopped parsley or dill for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking the cod evenly.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
  3. Arrange Cod Fillets: Place the cod fillets evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish for uniform cooking.
  4. Drizzle Olive Oil: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the cod fillets to keep the fish moist and enhance flavor.
  5. Add Garlic: Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly on top of the fillets to infuse a subtle, aromatic flavor.
  6. Season: Season the cod with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to taste for balanced seasoning.
  7. Layer Lemon Slices: Place the thin lemon slices over the cod fillets to add brightness and a citrusy aroma as it bakes.
  8. Bake: Bake the cod for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
  9. Rest: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the cod rest for a few minutes to retain its juiciness.
  10. Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs over the cooked cod to provide color and a fresh herbal note.
  11. Serve: Serve warm with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Ensure the cod fillets are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
  • You can substitute parsley with dill or other fresh herbs like cilantro or basil, depending on your preference.
  • Checking doneness by flaking the fish gently with a fork ensures it is perfectly cooked without drying out.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • If you prefer, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a slightly spiced variation.