Baked Cod Recipe

The baked cod recipe you never knew you needed: a simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish perfect for any weeknight or even a special occasion. This recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy flaky, tender cod with minimal effort, making it a go-to solution for delicious home-cooked meals.

Key Ingredients for Baked Cod

• 1.5 lbs cod fillets (about 4-6 fillets)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Baked Cod

This baked cod recipe is a culinary dream for busy cooks and flavor seekers alike. In under 30 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll create a dish that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying, boasting tender, flaky fish bathed in a simple yet delicious seasoning blend.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. This step ensures your cod won’t stick and makes post-dinner tidying a breeze.
2. Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving a beautiful sear and ensuring the seasonings adhere well. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
3. Coat the Fillets: Place the dried cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon or brush the olive oil and spice mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, ensuring they are well coated. Gently spread the seasoning to cover the entire surface.
4. Add Lemon Slices: Arrange the thinly sliced lemon over and around the seasoned cod fillets. The lemon will bake alongside the fish, infusing it with a bright, zesty flavor and keeping the cod moist as it cooks.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. 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 your fillets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the baked cod immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod

You’ll adore this baked cod recipe for its incredible simplicity and the wonderfully flaky, moist texture it achieves, a true testament to the power of oven baking. Unlike more involved methods, this recipe makes preparing restaurant-quality fish accessible in your own kitchen a fraction of the cost. The magic lies in the simple yet impactful blend of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and fresh lemon, transforming humble cod into a flavorful masterpiece that outshines even a basic baked salmon.

This dish is not only a budget-friendly alternative to seafood dinners out but also a healthy choice packed with lean protein. Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for those nights when time is scarce but the craving for something delicious and wholesome strikes. Don’t hesitate – gather your ingredients and experience the joy of this easy and delightful baked cod recipe tonight!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Allow the baked cod to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent the fish from drying out.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked baked cod. After cooling, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Frozen baked cod will maintain its best quality for up to 1-2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: For the best texture, reheat baked cod in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C). Place the leftovers on a baking sheet, perhaps with a tablespoon of water or lemon juice to reintroduce moisture. Reheat for 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: You can also reheat cod in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of oil or butter. Cover and cook until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as cod can become dry.
• Microwave (least recommended for texture): If using a microwave, heat on a low power setting for shorter intervals (30-60 seconds) to avoid drying out the fish.

Final Thoughts

This baked cod recipe is a true gem for anyone seeking a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy meal. Its simplicity makes it approachable for all skill levels, so give it a try and savor the wonderful flavors of perfectly baked cod tonight!

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