Straightforward Lemon Baked Cod

Should you’re on the lookout for a quick, flavorful dinner that feels a bit fancy with out the additional effort, this simple lemon baked cod is it. The fillets bake up flaky with a lemon, buttery crust loaded with garlic and Parmesan. It’s the form of dinner that makes you are feeling such as you ordered one thing particular at a restaurant, however it solely takes quarter-hour begin to end.

In search of easier fish recipes? Attempt our Easy Air Fryer Salmon.

It’s simple to show this dish into an entire meal and will be served over rice along with your favourite veggie on the facet, or maintain it mild and serve it with a easy, recent inexperienced salad. It’s a simple strategy to get dinner on the desk shortly and it’s good for you too!

Ingredient Notes

• Cod Fish: Search for 6-ounce parts of recent or thawed cod. If utilizing frozen, thaw utterly and pat dry to take away extra moisture.
• Butter: Make certain it’s softened since you’ll be mixing it with different components. Salted or unsalted is ok.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is what you need for the very best soften and taste.
• All-Goal Flour: Helps create a barely thick, spreadable crust.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the very best taste, however jarred works too.
• Dried Basil: Provides a delicate herbaceous observe. Italian seasoning could possibly be used as an alternative for a special taste twist.
• Onion Powder: Provides depth to the butter combination. Don’t substitute with recent onion—it received’t mix as properly.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides a bit tang and complexity. Yellow mustard can be utilized if wanted, however Dijon is most well-liked.
• Lemon Juice: Contemporary is finest for taste, however you too can use bottled.
• Contemporary Parsley (elective): Provides a pop of coloration and recent, herby taste.
• Lemon (elective): Thinly slice and use to garnish if you wish to make it fairly.

Shopping for Cod

Whenever you head to the shop to purchase your cod, search for agency, white fillets with a gentle scent. Keep away from items that look uninteresting or have a robust fishy odor. Fish shouldn’t scent fishy if it’s good.

Should you’re utilizing frozen cod, be certain that to thaw it utterly within the fridge in a single day or below chilly working water. Pat it dry earlier than baking to assist the crust stick higher and guarantee even cooking.

Utilizing Different Fish

This lemon-butter topping is scrumptious on different fish as properly. Simply control prepare dinner time: tilapia’s thinner and wishes much less time (suppose shave off a pair minutes), whereas thick cuts like halibut might have just a few further to get flaky and opaque during.

The way to Know When It’s Executed

When your cod goes from see-through and glossy to strong white and begins flaking, it’s performed. The interior temperature ought to attain 145°F (63°C) if you happen to’re utilizing a thermometer. Watch out to not overcook it. Cod is a lean fish and dries out shortly if left within the oven too lengthy.

Serving Recommendations

Rice and Veggies: Merely pair with a facet of white or brown steamed rice and a inexperienced veggie (we love asparagus or green beans) for an entire meal.

Tacos: Slice it up and throw it in a taco. Add toppings like cabbage, bitter cream, guacamole, and a few sliced or pickled jalapeños.

Salad or Wrap: Repurpose these leftovers and use in a salad or lettuce wrap.