Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs

This baked cod recipe involves gently seasoning the fish with lemon zest and fresh herbs, then baking it until flaky and tender. The final dish has a delicate, moist texture with a light golden crust on top, showcasing the clean flavors of the fish and citrus.

Hit the Rating button

Print Pin

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: seafood

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 15

Total Time: 25

Calories: 210kcal

Author: James Taylor

Servings:

Equipment

▢
Baking sheet
▢
Aluminum foil

Ingredients

▢ 4 fillets cod fillets skinless and boneless
▢ 1 lemon lemon zested and juiced
▢ 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
▢ 2 cloves garlic minced
▢ 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley chopped
▢ to taste salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Zest the lemon first, then juice half of it and set aside.
Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet and pat them dry with paper towels. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the fillets, then season generously with salt and pepper.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped herbs. Mix well to create a simple marinade or dressing.
Pour the lemon-herb mixture evenly over the fish, spreading it with the back of a spoon so that each fillet is coated with the fragrant marinade.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You'll notice the fish turning opaque and flaky around the edges, with the top developing a light golden hue.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the fillets rest for a minute. Check for doneness; the fish should easily flake apart with a fork and look moist and tender.
Serve your baked cod immediately, garnished with extra chopped herbs or lemon slices if desired. The fish's flaky texture and bright, citrusy flavor make it perfect for a light, satisfying meal.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes or add a splash of white wine before baking. Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition