Baked COD with Garlic and Lemon Sauce
Baked cod with Garlic and Lemon Sauce is a delightful and healthy dish that celebrates the natural flavors of fish enhanced by aromatic garlic and the brightness of fresh lemon. This recipe features tender cod fillets seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that infuses the fish with a savory depth of flavor.The combination of lemon juice, zest, and garlic not only adds a refreshing taste but also brings a beautiful aroma to the dish. Baked to perfection, the fish becomes flaky and moist, making it a satisfying meal for seafood lovers. Garnished with red pepper flakes for a hint of heat and fresh parsley for color, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 3 medium cod fillets
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground paprika
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Red pepper flakes optional, for garnish
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Season the Cod
- Pat cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and paprika.
- Rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of the fish.
- Place fillets in a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking dish in a single layer.
Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.
- Stir in chopped garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the fish fillets.
Bake the Fish
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake cod for 15–20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Optional: For a golden finish, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Garnish & Serve
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with lemon slices, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
- Serve warm with rice, roasted potatoes, vegetables, or salad.
Notes
Approximate Nutrition (per serving, 3 servings total)
- Calories: ~235 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: <1 g
- Sugar: 0.5 g
*Nutrition info is a rough estimate based on the ingredients. Note that values may vary from case to case.
*As with all recipes, there is a number of ways you can get things done. If you believe that some of the instructions can be improved, or have a good alternative solution, feel free to leave a comment.
