Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked cod is tender, moist, and delicately flavored. It requires minimal prep, cooks in under 20 minutes, and uses everyday ingredients. It’s naturally low in calories and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned home chef, this dish is practically foolproof and always delivers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cod fillets (fresh or thawed)
olive oil
lemon juice
garlic (minced)
fresh parsley
fresh thyme or dill
salt
black pepper
lemon slices (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
3. Season the Cod: Place cod fillets in the dish. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped herbs.
4. Add Lemon Slices: Lay a few lemon slices on top of each fillet for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
5. Bake the Cod: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
6. Serve: Garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Herb Butter Topping: Mix softened butter with herbs and garlic, then spread over the cod before baking.
• Spicy Version: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a touch of heat.
• Breadcrumb Crust: Top with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil for a crispy finish.
• Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers to the baking dish for extra flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Use a mix of lemon and orange juice for a subtle sweetness.
• Mustard Glaze: Mix a bit of Dijon mustard with lemon juice and brush on top before baking.
• Use Frozen Cod: Just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the fish.

Freezing: Best when eaten fresh, but cooked cod can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently to maintain texture.

FAQs

What type of cod should I use?

Fresh Atlantic or Pacific cod fillets work well. You can also use frozen fillets—just thaw and pat dry first.

How do I know when the cod is done?

The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I use other fish for this recipe?

Yes, haddock, halibut, or tilapia are great alternatives that work with the same preparation.

Is cod a good fish for baking?

Yes, cod is firm, mild, and cooks quickly, making it ideal for baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but bake the fish fresh for the best texture.

Should I cover the cod while baking?

No, bake uncovered to help the top stay light and slightly golden.

What are good sides for baked cod?

Serve with roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

How do I prevent the cod from drying out?

Avoid overbaking. Spoon some of the pan juices over the cod before serving to keep it moist.

Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Yes, you can bake sliced zucchini, tomatoes, or asparagus alongside the fish for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it perfect for low-carb or keto eating plans.

Conclusion

Baked cod with lemon and herbs is a clean, bright, and delicious meal that’s as healthy as it is satisfying. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a fresh, flavorful take on seafood that everyone will love.

Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs

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Baked cod with lemon and herbs is a simple, healthy dish featuring tender, flaky cod fillets seasoned with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme or dill, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Sprinkle minced garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme or dill over the fillets.
5. Top each fillet with lemon slices.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with more fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Don’t overbake—check doneness at 12 minutes.
• Use fresh or thawed cod and pat it dry before baking.
• Add cherry tomatoes or asparagus to the dish for a one-pan meal.
• Spoon pan juices over the cod before serving to keep it moist.
• Frozen cod works well—just thaw completely before baking.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 fillet
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 260mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 60mg