Baked Cod with Lemon and Garli

by

Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is a light, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dinner that comes together in just over 20 minutes. The cod turns perfectly tender and flaky, coated in warm spices and baked in a bright, garlicky lemon sauce. It is an effortless weeknight recipe that tastes elegant enough for entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish highlights the naturally mild flavor of cod by pairing it with a small list of simple ingredients. A quick coating of seasoned flour helps the fillets get a beautiful golden crust when seared, while the lemon-garlic sauce adds freshness and depth. The result is moist, flaky fish infused with warm Mediterranean spices.

Ingredients

Lemon-Garlic Sauce

  • 5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced

Seasoned Flour

  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 3/4 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Cod

  • 1 1/2 pounds cod fillets
  • Extra olive oil for searing
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Choose a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish that can hold the fillets in a single layer.

2. Mix the Lemon-Garlic Sauce

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter. Set aside, as you will use this sauce both for coating the fish and for baking.

3. Prepare the Seasoned Flour

In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, ground coriander, paprika, cumin, and kosher salt. Mix well so the spices are evenly distributed.

4. Coat the Fish

Dip each cod fillet into the lemon sauce, then gently coat all sides in the seasoned flour. Allow any excess to fall off. Keep the remaining lemon sauce for baking.

5. Sear the Cod

Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the cod for about 2 minutes per side, just until lightly golden. The goal is to create some color, not to cook the fish through.

6. Add the Garlic-Lemon Sauce

Stir the minced garlic into the remaining lemon sauce. Pour this mixture evenly over the seared cod in the skillet.

7. Bake

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cod turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two.

8. Garnish and Serve

Finish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright pop of color. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

  • Use good-quality cod: Fresh or frozen-thawed cod works well. If using frozen, thaw completely in cold water while still in its packaging.
  • Do not overcook: Cod cooks quickly, so begin checking at the 10-minute mark.
  • Use an oven-safe skillet: This makes the transition from stovetop to oven seamless.
  • Adjust seasonings: You can add a pinch of cayenne or extra paprika for a deeper color and light heat.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with Mediterranean-style sides, such as:

  • Greek salad
  • Fattoush
  • Roasted broccoli or asparagus
  • Lemon rice or simple herb potatoes
  • Chickpea or bean salads

For an appetizer-style spread, serve with tzatziki, olive oil-drizzled pita, or a simple eggplant dip.

Storing Leftovers

Cod tastes best freshly cooked, but leftovers can be stored if necessary:

  • Refrigerate in a tightly sealed glass container for up to 2 days.
  • To reheat, warm gently in a medium oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the fish rubbery.
  • Freezing is possible for up to 1 month, though the texture may change slightly

Leave a Comment