If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant seafood dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe. It’s bright, tender, and packed with an aromatic blend of herbs and zesty lemon that gives cod a whole new life on your plate. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is straightforward but delivers big on flavor and freshness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple, yet each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color in your Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe. From the citrusy punch of lemons to the earthy herbs and fragrant garlic, everything works harmoniously to elevate the delicate fish.
- Cod fillets: About 6 ounces each, choose fresh or thawed fillets for the best flaky texture.
- Lemons: Thinly sliced to infuse bright citrus notes without overwhelming the mild cod.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the herbs and spices adhere to the fish.
- Dried oregano: Offers a slightly peppery and aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon.
- Dried thyme: Lends subtle earthiness, enhancing the dish’s fresh herb profile.
- Garlic powder: Provides a gentle, savory backbone without overpowering.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick, these add mild heat to balance the citrus.
- Salt and pepper: To season and bring all the flavors together perfectly.
- Fresh parsley: A finishing touch that adds a pop of green color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Make Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Fish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which ensures a perfect cooking temperature to get that tender, flaky texture in your cod. While the oven warms, pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels—this step helps the olive oil and herbs cling to the fish and prevents steaming in the oven.
Step 2: Season the Cod
In a small bowl, mix together the dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the cod fillets, then sprinkle the herb mixture evenly on all sides. This seasoning blend will make sure every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 3: Arrange and Add Lemon Slices
Place the seasoned cod fillets in a single layer on a baking dish. Take the thin lemon slices and arrange them right on top of the fillets. This allows the lemon oils and juices to infuse the fish gently as it cooks, keeping it moist and bright.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, as cod is at its best when tender but still juicy.
How to Serve Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe
Garnishes
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the fillets for a delicate herbal finish and vibrant green color. You can also add a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten everything up even more.
Side Dishes
This Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a light quinoa salad. These accompaniments keep the meal balanced, letting the cod shine while complementing its fresh flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, serve the cod over a bed of wilted baby spinach or mixed greens. Alternatively, present each fillet with a lemon wedge fan and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts to add texture and elegance, perfect for dinner parties or a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, retaining the flavors you loved fresh from the oven.
Freezing
While freshly baked cod is best enjoyed right away, you can freeze leftover cooked fillets by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them inside a freezer-safe container. Use within one month for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the cod in a low-temperature oven around 275°F (135°C) for 10 minutes or until just heated through. This method helps prevent the fish from drying out, preserving the tender, moist characteristics of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can brighten the dish even more. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, and add some on top before baking and as a garnish after.
Is cod the only fish that works with this recipe?
Not at all! This Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe works wonderfully with other mild white fish such as haddock, halibut, or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on thickness.
Can I make this recipe without lemon slices?
You can, but the lemon slices do more than add flavor; they help keep the fish moist while cooking. If you skip them, consider adding fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving.
What if I don’t have garlic powder?
No worries! You can substitute with fresh minced garlic—use about one garlic clove finely chopped per fillet and sprinkle it on along with the herbs before baking.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Overcooked cod becomes dry and tough, so it’s best to check a few minutes before the suggested time, especially if your fillets are thinner.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe has become a personal favorite that I always turn to when I want something light, fresh, and incredibly satisfying. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll have a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.
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Lemon-Herb Baked Cod Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Lemon-Herb Baked Cod recipe features tender cod fillets seasoned with a bright and aromatic blend of lemon slices, dried oregano, thyme, and garlic powder. Baked to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil and a hint of red pepper flakes for optional heat, this dish is a light and flavorful seafood option perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Seasoning & Herbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon & Garnish
- 2 lemons, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the cod fillets evenly.
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, combine the dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the herb seasoning.
- Season the cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil on all sides, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the fillets, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Arrange lemon slices and cod: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased, lay out the cod fillets. Place thin lemon slices over and around each fillet to infuse their fresh citrus flavor while baking.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately alongside your choice of sides.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the cod fillets with the olive oil and herb mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit entirely for a milder dish.
- Pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Ensure not to overcook the cod, as it can become dry. Check for doneness frequently from 12 minutes onward.
