Simple 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 sort of dinner that makes you’re feeling such as you ordered one thing particular at a restaurant, but it surely solely takes quarter-hour begin to end.

In search of less difficult fish recipes? Strive our Easy Air Fryer Salmon.

It’s simple to show this dish into a whole meal and will be served over rice together with your favourite veggie on the aspect, or maintain it mild and serve it with a easy, contemporary inexperienced salad. It’s a straightforward option to get dinner on the desk shortly and it’s good for you too!

Ingredient Notes

• Cod Fish: Search for 6-ounce parts of contemporary or thawed cod. If utilizing frozen, thaw fully and pat dry to take away extra moisture.
• Butter: Make certain it’s softened since you’ll be mixing it with different substances. 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 offers the very best taste, however jarred works too.
• Dried Basil: Provides a delicate herbaceous observe. Italian seasoning could possibly be used as a substitute for a special taste twist.
• Onion Powder: Offers depth to the butter combination. Don’t substitute with contemporary 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 popular.
• Lemon Juice: Recent is greatest for taste, however you too can use bottled.
• Recent Parsley (non-compulsory): Provides a pop of coloration and contemporary, herby taste.
• Lemon (non-compulsory): Thinly slice and use to garnish if you wish to make it fairly.

Shopping for Cod

If 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 powerful fishy odor. Fish shouldn’t scent fishy if it’s good.

Should you’re utilizing frozen cod, be sure that to thaw it fully within the fridge in a single day or below chilly operating 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 keep watch over prepare dinner time: tilapia’s thinner and desires much less time (suppose shave off a pair minutes), whereas thick cuts like halibut might have just a few additional to get flaky and opaque right through.

The right way to Know When It’s Achieved

When your cod goes from see-through and glossy to strong white and begins flaking, it’s executed. The inner temperature ought to attain 145°F (63°C) for those who’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 aspect of white or brown steamed rice and a inexperienced veggie (we love asparagus or green beans) for a whole 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.