Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic 🐟🍋
A light, flaky, and flavorful 30-minute meal with tender cod fillets, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
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4 (6 oz) cod fillets, patted dry
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3 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 lemon (zested + juiced)
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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Lemon slices (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
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1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)
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1 tbsp capers (for briny tang)
Instructions
1. Prep the Cod
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place cod fillets in a greased baking dish (or on parchment-lined sheet).
2. Make the Lemon-Garlic Sauce
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In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Spoon sauce over cod, coating evenly.
3. Bake
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Bake for 12-15 mins (until fish flakes easily with a fork).
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If desired, broil for 1-2 mins for a golden top.
4. Garnish & Serve
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices.
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Serve with:
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Roasted veggies (asparagus, zucchini)
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Mashed potatoes or rice
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Crusty bread (to soak up the sauce!)
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Tips for Perfect Baked Cod
✔ Don’t overcook! Cod is done at 145°F (63°C)—it will keep cooking after removal.
✔ Fresh vs. frozen: Thaw frozen cod in the fridge overnight for best texture.
✔ Extra flavor? Add white wine (2 tbsp) to the baking dish before cooking.
Why You’ll Love This
✅ Quick & easy—ready in under 30 minutes.
✅ Healthy & low-carb (packed with protein and omega-3s).
✅ Bright, restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort.
Leftovers? Flake into tacos or salads the next day!
Want a creamy twist? Drizzle with garlic aioli before serving. 😊
Need a side dish idea? Ask for my favorite pairings!