Garlic Herb Baked Cod is a delightful and healthy dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your dinner table. With tender, flaky cod fillets enveloped in a fragrant blend of garlic and fresh herbs, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience, making it the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this Garlic Herb Baked Cod because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. The garlic and fresh herbs impart a robust flavor that complements the mildness of the cod perfectly, making it appealing to both seafood lovers and those who are less familiar with fish. Plus, it fits seamlessly into various dietary lifestyles, being low in calories, high in protein, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your Garlic Herb Baked Cod experience, consider these tips:
- Choose fresh cod fillets for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.
- Marinate the fish in the garlic herb mixture for at least 15 minutes before baking for an extra punch of flavor.
- Use a high-quality olive oil to enhance the richness of the dish.
- If you prefer a crispy texture, broil the cod for the last few minutes of cooking to give it a golden-brown finish.
Make Ahead Tips
For meal preppers, this recipe offers great make-ahead options:
- Prepare the garlic herb mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- You can also marinate the cod fillets up to 2 hours ahead of time for a more robust flavor. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
- Cooked cod can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Garlic Herb Baked Cod with these variations:
- Swap out the cod for other firm white fish like haddock or tilapia.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to the marinade for a citrusy twist.
- Experiment with different herbs such as dill or parsley based on your taste preferences.
- For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes in the herb mixture.
How to Serve
To serve Garlic Herb Baked Cod, place the fillets on a platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges. This visually appealing presentation invites your guests to dig in. Pair the cod with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing glass of sparkling water with lemon complements the dish perfectly. As for sides, consider serving with a light quinoa salad or steamed asparagus. For dessert, a light fruit sorbet can be a delightful way to end the meal.
How to Store
Leftover Garlic Herb Baked Cod can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cooled cod tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Equipment Needed
The equipment required for this recipe is minimal:
- A baking dish or sheet pan for baking the cod.
- A mixing bowl for preparing the garlic herb mixture.
- A whisk or fork for combining ingredients.
- Optional: A meat thermometer to ensure your cod reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions, here are some adaptations:
- To make this dish gluten-free, simply ensure that your herbs and any additional ingredients (like broth) are certified gluten-free.
- For a dairy-free version, stick to olive oil and ensure no butter is used.
- To make it nut-free, this recipe already naturally avoids nuts, so it’s safe for those with nut allergies.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers alongside the cod prior to baking. In fall or winter, you might incorporate root vegetables such as carrots or parsnips for a heartier meal.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen cod? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- How long does it take to cook cod? Generally, cod takes about 12-15 minutes at 400°F, depending on thickness.
- What can I substitute for cod? Other firm white fish, such as halibut or snapper, can also work well in this recipe.
How To Make Garlic Herb Baked Cod
Garlic Herb Baked Cod
Garlic Herb Baked Cod is a delightful and healthy dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the garlic herb mixture over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Let the cod marinate for at least 15 minutes while the oven heats.
- Bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
- For a crispy finish, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 324Total Fat 15gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 99mgSodium 216mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 42g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Herb Baked Cod is a simple yet elegant dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike. With its robust flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether you serve it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the delightful taste of the ocean while embracing a healthy lifestyle with this delicious recipe!
