Save to Pinterest This Mediterranean-inspired baked cod features tender, flaky fillets infused with vibrant lemon, fresh herbs, and quality olive oil. The simple herb marinade of garlic, parsley, dill, and thyme creates aromatic depth while keeping the dish light and healthy.
Bake at 200°C for 15-18 minutes until the cod turns opaque and flakes easily. Serve immediately with lemon garnish and optional fresh herbs for an elegant weeknight dinner that's naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates.
The first time I made baked cod, I remember standing at my kitchen window while a spring storm lashed against the glass, the scent of lemon and herbs creating a bright contrast to the gray day outside. I'd picked up the fillets from a small fishmonger who swore this simple preparation would let the delicate flavor of the fish shine through. He was right - the combination of bright citrus and gentle herbs transformed that stormy evening into something Mediterranean and hopeful.
Last summer, I made this cod for my sister who typically avoids seafood, claiming she can never get it right at home. As she took her first bite, her eyebrows shot up in surprise, and she immediately asked for the recipe. The simplicity of it converted her instantly, and now its become her go-to when she wants to impress without stress.
Ingredients
- Cod fillets: Look for pieces that are firm and smell fresh like the ocean, not fishy - its worth asking your fishmonger for the freshest catch of the day.
- Fresh herbs: The combination of parsley, dill and thyme creates a garden-fresh flavor profile that elevates the mild cod into something truly special.
- Lemon: Both the juice and zest work together here - the juice tenderizes while the zest provides those aromatic oils that make all the difference.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Use the good stuff here since you'll taste it in the final dish - I learned this after once using an old bottle that left a slightly bitter finish.
Instructions
- Prep your canvas:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C and pat those cod fillets dry with paper towels - this helps the marinade stick better and prevents steaming.
- Create your flavor bath:
- Whisk together that fragrant mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic and herbs until it becomes a vibrant, aromatic slurry that smells like summer.
- Dress the fish:
- Spoon the herb mixture generously over each fillet, making sure every piece gets an equal coating of those bright flavors.
- Add the citrus accent:
- Arrange those thin lemon slices on top and around the fillets, which not only adds more flavor but makes the finished dish look like something from a fancy restaurant.
- Bake to perfection:
- Slide the dish into your preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, watching for that magical moment when the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Save to Pinterest My neighbor Tom, who claims he could burn water, texted me a picture of this dish after I shared the recipe with him. His message read, First meal my kids have cleaned their plates in weeks! There was something so satisfying about seeing this simple preparation bringing a small moment of peace to his usually chaotic dinner table.
Pairing Suggestions
After trying countless sides with this dish, Ive found that roasted asparagus or a simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette creates the perfect balance. The slight bitterness of these greens cuts through the richness of the fish while still keeping the meal feeling light and vibrant.
Make It Your Own
On nights when I want something with a bit more punch, I add a sprinkle of capers or finely diced preserved lemon to the herb mixture. The briny, tangy notes create an entirely different experience while still maintaining the Mediterranean spirit of the original recipe.
Serving Suggestions
While this cod is perfectly delicious on its own, serving it atop a small puddle of simple garlic-infused olive oil takes it to restaurant-worthy heights. I discovered this by accident when some of the baking juices pooled on my plate, creating a sauce I couldnt stop sopping up with bread.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving wakes up all the flavors and adds a bright finishing touch.
- Let the fish rest for about 3 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the fillets.
- For a beautiful presentation, serve the cod on warmed plates with a small sprig of fresh herbs on top.
Save to Pinterest This simple cod recipe reminds me that good cooking isnt always about complexity or exotic ingredients. Sometimes its just about treating simple ingredients with respect and letting their natural flavors shine.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
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The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh turns opaque white throughout. Typically this takes 15-18 minutes at 200°C. Avoid overcooking as cod can become dry.
- → Can I substitute cod with another fish?
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Yes, other white fish work well as substitutes. Haddock, halibut, pollock, or sea bass are excellent alternatives. Adjust baking time slightly if using thicker or thinner fillets.
- → Should I use fresh or dried herbs?
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Fresh herbs provide superior flavor and aroma, but dried herbs work in a pinch. Use approximately one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. Add dried herbs at the beginning of cooking for better infusion.
- → What are good side dishes to serve with this?
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Roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad complement the dish beautifully. For beverages, pair with Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the bright lemon flavors.
- → How can I add more flavor to this dish?
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Sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat, add capers or olives for briny notes, or include a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. You can also increase garlic or add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for depth.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
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Yes, prepare the herb mixture up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Assemble the dish just before baking for best results. The baked cod is best served immediately but can be gently reheated at low temperature.
