Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe for a Flavorful Dinner

The aroma of citrus and butter wafts through the air, mingling with the delicate scent of fresh fish. Imagine sinking your fork into a tender piece of cod, perfectly baked until flaky and infused with a bright lemon flavor that dances on your palate. delicious blueberry biscuits For those nights when you want to impress without breaking a sweat, this Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe is your culinary knight in shining armor. mini berry trifles.

Picture it: a cozy dinner with friends or family, laughter echoing around the table as you serve up this stunning dish. Each bite transports you to sunny shores, making it perfect for any occasion from casual weeknight dinners to fancy gatherings where you want to show off a little. Trust me, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

Ingredients for Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan spiced salmon recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen cod works well; just ensure they are thawed if using frozen.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances flavor; bottled may work in a pinch but lacks the freshness.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness while allowing the flavors to shine.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the dish’s flavor profile choose firm cloves for best results.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness; feel free to use dried if that’s all you have on hand.

For seasoning:

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the cod; adjust to your taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). As it warms up, grab a baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so our cod doesn’t stick like bad memories from high school.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt about half a cup of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and lemon juice until everything is well combined. The aroma should make you weak in the knees!

Step 3: Season the Cod

Place each cod fillet in the prepared baking dish. Generously season them with salt and pepper; don’t be shy! Then drizzle that heavenly lemon-butter mixture over each fillet like you’re dressing them up for a fancy night out.

Step 4: Bake Until Flaky

Now, pop that baking dish into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. You know it’s ready when it looks like sunshine on your plate.

Step 5: Garnish

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over your freshly baked cod like confetti at a party. It adds not just flavor but also vibrancy because who wants boring food?

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Transfer those lovely pieces of cod onto plates and encourage guests to drizzle any remaining garlic-lemon butter sauce over their servings for an extra kick of flavor.

Now sit back, relax, and watch as everyone digs in excitedly! The combination of flavors is bound to impress even your pickiest eater friends (you know who they are). Enjoy every bite as laughter fills the room alongside compliments about your culinary skills.

There you have it the Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe that’s not only simple but also packed full of flavor!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, prepare the cod by patting it dry and seasoning with salt and pepper. Next, mix the lemon juice, butter, and garlic. Pour this luscious blend over the fish before baking for 15-20 minutes.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cod for halibut or tilapia if you fancy something different. Add a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs like dill for that extra zing. You can also toss in some cherry tomatoes or asparagus alongside the fish for a full meal.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it back into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy that freshly baked taste again!

I remember the first time I made this easy lemon butter baked cod recipe for my family. Their delighted faces were priceless, and my aunt even asked for seconds proof that simple can be extraordinary! light summer salad.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe?

For this Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe, gather fresh cod fillets, unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, garlic cloves, parsley, salt, and pepper. You may also consider adding a pinch of paprika for extra flavor. creamy baked mac and cheese Fresh ingredients ensure the best taste and texture in your dish. Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before you start preparing the cod.

How long does it take to cook cod in the oven?

Cooking cod in the oven typically takes about 12 to 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact time can vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can make the fish dry.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod for this Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe. If using frozen fillets, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption from the lemon butter sauce. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before seasoning.

What sides pair well with lemon butter baked cod?

Lemon butter baked cod pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a fresh touch. Rice or quinoa can also complement the dish beautifully, absorbing the delicious lemon butter sauce. A light salad adds a crunchy texture that balances the meal.

Conclusion for Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe :

In summary, this Easy Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy healthy seafood at home. By using simple ingredients like fresh lemon juice and butter, you create a dish that delights the palate without taking too much time. Remember to adjust cooking times based on fillet thickness for perfect results every time. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious! For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.