Introduction

This baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic offers a bright, flavorful way to enjoy a tender, flaky fish. The combination of fresh lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and savory spices creates a deliciously simple meal perfect for any night of the week.

The image shows a close-up of golden-browned baked fish fillets in a dark skillet. The fish has a crispy, slightly bubbly cheese crust with a light orange-brown color on top. Green chopped herbs are scattered over the fish and around the skillet, adding vibrant color contrast. A half lemon with a pale yellow interior sits beside the fish, offering a fresh, juicy look. The skillet rests on a dark wooden surface replaced by a white marbled texture, which adds a clean and elegant background to the rich colors of the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 lb cod fillet pieces (4-6 pieces)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
5 tbsp fresh lemon juice
5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp melted butter
5 garlic cloves, minced
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp ground coriander
3/4 tsp sweet Spanish paprika
3/4 tsp ground cumin
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and melted butter. Set this mixture aside, but do not add the garlic yet.
Step 3: In another shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, ground coriander, sweet Spanish paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Place this bowl next to the lemon sauce for easy access.
Step 4: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. Dip each piece first into the lemon sauce mixture, then coat it thoroughly with the flour and spice mixture. Shake off any excess flour and set the fillets aside. Keep the lemon sauce for later use.
Step 5: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or any oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering but not smoking, add the cod fillets. Sear each side for about 2 minutes to develop a light golden color without fully cooking the fish. Remove the skillet from heat.
Step 6: Add the minced garlic to the reserved lemon sauce and stir well. Drizzle this garlicky lemon mixture evenly over the seared cod fillets.
Step 7: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork, about 10 minutes. Start checking around 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Step 8: Once baked, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the floured fillets with cooking spray before searing.
Fresh herbs like dill or basil can be used instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Use a non-stick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet to ensure the fish doesn’t stick during searing.

Storage

Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in a low oven to avoid drying out the fish. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be served cold over a salad as well.

How to Serve

The image shows a black cast iron pan containing four pieces of golden-brown cooked fish with a slightly crispy texture, topped with chopped green herbs. The fish sits in a layer of melted butter mixed with finely chopped garlic, creating a glossy, yellowish sauce at the bottom of the pan. Half of a lemon, bright yellow and juicy, rests on the edge inside the pan. In the background, there is a glass bowl with fresh salad that includes green bell peppers, red tomato wedges, and white chunks of cheese. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cod works well. Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before starting the recipe to ensure proper searing and seasoning.

What can I serve with baked cod?

Baked cod pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Light sides complement the bright citrus and garlic flavors of the fish.