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Homemade Lemon Baked Cod recipe photo

Lemon Baked Cod

This Lemon Baked Cod is SO EASY! Zesty lemon and herbs perfectly complement flaky, tender cod for a quick, healthy dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets cod fresh or thawed, skinless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil adds richness and helps the fish stay moist
  • 1 lemon juiced and zested
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking dish or tray
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Microplane or grater
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

Preheat and Prepare
  1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the cod cooks quickly while staying moist and tender.
Make the Marinade
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended.
Coat and Marinate the Fish
  1. Place your cod fillets in the baking dish. Pour the lemon-olive oil mixture evenly over the fillets, making sure each piece is well coated. Let the fish marinate for 10-15 minutes if you have time; this step enhances the flavor but can be skipped for a quicker prep.
Bake the Cod
  1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep the cod tender and juicy.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Remove from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For a fresh herbal twist, substitute dried thyme with fresh thyme using three times the amount.
  • Thaw frozen cod completely and pat dry to avoid sogginess and ensure marinade sticks well.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, reheating gently to maintain moisture.
  • Try adding a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat variation.
  • Pair with seasonal sides like cucumber salad in spring or creamy mashed potatoes in winter for a complete meal.