Baked Cod with Lemon Butter is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe features tender cod filets baked to perfection and topped with a flavorful lemon butter sauce. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this delightful baked cod step-by-step.
Ingredients
- Four 6-ounce cod filets
- 2 teaspoons unsalted butter, melted
- Zest and juice of one lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Season Cod: Pat the cod filets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the filets with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Mix Butter and Lemon: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Place Cod on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned cod filets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Add Lemon Butter Sauce: Spoon the lemon butter mixture evenly over the cod filets, ensuring each filet is well coated.
Step 4: Bake the Cod
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of the filets.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove the cod from the oven and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve: Serve the baked cod hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this light and flavorful meal!
Cooking Notes
- Cod: Fresh cod is ideal for this recipe, but you can use frozen cod filets as well. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest add a bright, tangy flavor to the dish. Avoid using bottled lemon juice as it lacks the fresh taste.
- Garlic: Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste preference. For a milder flavor, you can use roasted garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of fish for this recipe? A: Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish such as haddock, halibut, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I add other seasonings to the lemon butter sauce? A: Absolutely! You can add herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley to the lemon butter sauce for additional flavor.
Keto/Low Carb Version
This Baked Cod with Lemon Butter recipe is naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto diet. Ensure the butter used is unsalted and avoid adding any sugary sauces or sides.
Baked Cod with Lemon Butter is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of tender cod and zesty lemon butter sauce makes for a light and flavorful meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, healthy seafood dinner!
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