Grilled Cod with Blackened Seasoning is a culinary delight that beautifully showcases the mild, flaky texture of cod fish, complemented by a bold and spicy seasoning blend. This dish not only captures the essence of summer grilling but also brings an explosion of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfectly charred on the outside while remaining moist and tender on the inside, this recipe is sure to impress both family and guests alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this Grilled Cod with Blackened Seasoning for its incredible flavor profile and simplicity. The blackened seasoning creates a deliciously smoky crust that enhances the fish without overpowering its delicate taste. It’s an effortless dish that requires minimal prep time and can be cooked in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s a healthy choice, being rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, fitting perfectly into a low-carb or paleo lifestyle.
Tips and Tricks
- For a more intense flavor, let the cod marinate in the blackened seasoning for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Use a high-heat oil, like avocado oil, to prevent smoking while grilling and to enhance the blackened effect.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to high temperatures to achieve the best sear on the fish.
- If you’re using a grill basket, coat it with oil to prevent sticking.
- If you prefer a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper and consider adding a bit of brown sugar for sweetness.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the blackened seasoning in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to a month. Additionally, if you prefer, you can marinate the fish the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Cod can also be prepped for grilling, and if stored properly, it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to two days.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with different types of fish, such as salmon or tilapia, for a change. Alternatively, you can make a blackened shrimp version for a seafood twist. For those looking for a bit of sweetness, consider adding a touch of maple syrup to the seasoning mix. You could also grill the cod on a cedar plank for added flavor.
How to Serve
Serve your Grilled Cod with Blackened Seasoning on a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal. Pair it with a fresh salad topped with avocado and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing contrast. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and extra flavor to the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager for beer lovers. A refreshing mojito or a citrus-infused iced tea also pairs beautifully with the spicy notes of the blackened seasoning. As for sides, grilled vegetables or a corn salad would complement the dish nicely, and a light sorbet could serve as the perfect dessert.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to freeze the cod, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn; it can last for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently in the oven at a low temperature to avoid drying it out.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you will need a grill or grill pan, a mixing bowl for the seasoning, a whisk or spoon for mixing, and a spatula for flipping the fish. If you don’t have a grill, a broiler could be a suitable alternative.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan option, you can substitute the cod with firm tofu or eggplant slices, while keeping the blackened seasoning the same. To make it gluten-free, ensure that the seasoning does not contain any additives with gluten, and serve it with gluten-free sides.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer, pair the cod with fresh corn and tomatoes for a vibrant dish. During fall, consider adding roasted squash or sweet potatoes as side options to complement the spicy flavor of the cod.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen cod? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- What if I don’t have all the spices? You can purchase pre-made blackened seasoning from the store or substitute with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- How long should I grill the cod? Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
How To Make Grilled Cod with Blackened Seasoning
Grilled Cod with Blackened Seasoning
Grilled Cod with Blackened Seasoning is a culinary delight that beautifully showcases the mild, flaky texture of cod fish, complemented by a bold and spicy seasoning blend.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the blackened seasoning. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil on both sides.
- Generously sprinkle the blackened seasoning over each fillet, ensuring an even coating.
- Preheat your grill to high heat.
- Once the grill is hot, place the cod fillets on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, to achieve a good sear.
- Carefully flip the fillets using a spatula and grill for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 266Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 99mgSodium 217mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 2gSugar 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
Grilled Cod with Blackened Seasoning is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their seafood cooking game. With its bold flavors and ease of preparation, this dish is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different sides and seasonings. Enjoy the deliciousness and impress your friends and family with a meal that celebrates the beauty of fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques. Happy grilling!
