The scent of citrus mingling with the ocean breeze might just be my favorite aroma. Imagine biting into a flaky piece of lemon herb cod—it’s like a culinary hug from the sea. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience, bringing bright flavors that dance on your tongue and sunny memories to mind.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- Preheat Your Oven
- Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Mix the Marinade
- Coat the Cod
- Bake Until Flaky
- Serve & Savor
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
- What are some good side dishes to pair with Lemon Herb Cod?
- How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Every time I whip up this lemon herb cod, I’m reminded of countless family dinners where laughter and stories were shared over delicious bites. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special gathering, this recipe has a way of transforming ordinary moments into something extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This zesty lemon herb cod is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- You can customize the herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Its vibrant colors create an eye-catching presentation that impresses guests without much effort.
- Perfect for any occasion—from cozy nights in to festive celebrations!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cod Fillets: Opt for fresh or frozen fillets; both work well but ensure they’re sustainably sourced.
- Fresh Lemons: Choose firm lemons with bright yellow skin for the best flavor and juice.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on these little flavor bombs!
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while keeping the fish moist during cooking.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Thyme): Use chopped herbs for freshness; they elevate the overall taste significantly.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring balance to all the vibrant flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your lemon herb cod cooks evenly and achieves that beautiful flaky texture.
Prepare Your Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and keep clean-up effortless.
Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper until combined. The aroma should be bright and inviting!
Coat the Cod
Place your cod fillets in the baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is lovingly coated—this is where all that flavor lives!
Bake Until Flaky
Transfer your baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye out as it transforms from translucent to white perfection.
Serve & Savor
Once baked, remove your lemon herb cod from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra herbs or lemon slices for an appealing presentation.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish! It’s not just food; it’s a celebration on your plate filled with zesty flavors and wholesome goodness. What are you waiting for? Get cooking!
You Must Know
- The Lemon Herb Cod is a delightful dish that balances bright flavors with tender fish.
- This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, providing a fresh taste that feels gourmet without the fuss.
- Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly cooked Lemon Herb Cod, season the fish before searing it in a hot pan. Let it cook until opaque, about 4-6 minutes per side.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs like parsley for dill or basil. Adding capers can also give a tangy twist to the dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat to preserve its texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For flaky fish, ensure it’s at room temperature before cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan for even browning.
- Lastly, allow it to rest after cooking for juicy results.
I remember serving this Lemon Herb Cod at a family gathering and being showered with compliments. My Aunt Marge even asked for seconds, which is saying something!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What are some good side dishes to pair with Lemon Herb Cod?
Consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a light salad for balance.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The fish should appear opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Lemon Herb Cod
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Herb Cod is a vibrant dish featuring flaky cod fillets infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, perfect for elevating any meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 lemons (juiced, zest reserved)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place cod fillets in the baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with lemon slices and extra herbs before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to replace parsley with dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Adding capers will introduce a tangy twist to the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
