Straightforward Lemon Baked Cod

In the event you’re on the lookout for a quick, flavorful dinner that feels slightly fancy with out the additional effort, this straightforward lemon baked cod is it. The fillets bake up flaky with a lemon, buttery crust loaded with garlic and Parmesan. It’s the sort of dinner that makes you’re feeling such as you ordered one thing particular at a restaurant, however it solely takes quarter-hour begin to end.

Searching for simpler fish recipes? Strive our Easy Air Fryer Salmon.

Why My Recipe

• Flaky cod with a flavorful garlic parmesan crust.
• Fast and simple dinner—prepared in solely quarter-hour!
• Full the meal with rice and a veggie or a inexperienced salad.

It’s straightforward to show this dish into an entire meal and could be served over rice along with your favourite veggie on the aspect, or hold it mild and serve it with a easy, contemporary inexperienced salad. It’s a straightforward option to get dinner on the desk rapidly and it’s good for you too!

Ingredient Notes

• Cod Fish: Search for 6-ounce parts of contemporary or thawed cod. If utilizing frozen, thaw fully and pat dry to take away extra moisture.
• Butter: Ensure that it’s softened since you’ll be mixing it with different components. Salted or unsalted is okay.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is what you need for one of the best soften and taste.
• All-Function Flour: Helps create a barely thick, spreadable crust.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers one of the best taste, however jarred works too.
• Dried Basil: Provides a delicate herbaceous word. Italian seasoning could possibly be used as an alternative for a unique taste twist.
• Onion Powder: Offers depth to the butter combination. Don’t substitute with contemporary onion—it gained’t mix as effectively.
• Dijon Mustard: Provides slightly tang and complexity. Yellow mustard can be utilized if wanted, however Dijon is most well-liked.
• Lemon Juice: Contemporary is finest for taste, however it’s also possible to use bottled.
• Contemporary Parsley (optionally available): Provides a pop of coloration and contemporary, herby taste.
• Lemon (optionally available): Thinly slice and use to garnish if you wish to make it fairly.

Shopping for Cod

Whenever you head to the shop to purchase your cod, search for agency, white fillets with a gentle odor. Keep away from items that look boring or have a powerful fishy odor. Fish shouldn’t odor fishy if it’s good.

In the event you’re utilizing frozen cod, be certain to thaw it fully within the fridge in a single day or underneath chilly working water. Pat it dry earlier than baking to assist the crust stick higher and guarantee even cooking.

Utilizing Different Fish

This lemon-butter topping is scrumptious on different fish as effectively. Simply keep watch over cook dinner time: tilapia’s thinner and desires much less time (suppose shave off a pair minutes), whereas thick cuts like halibut may have just a few further to get flaky and opaque right through.

The best way to Know When It’s Accomplished

When your cod goes from see-through and glossy to strong white and begins flaking, it’s executed. The inner temperature ought to attain 145°F (63°C) if you happen to’re utilizing a thermometer. Watch out to not overcook it. Cod is a lean fish and dries out rapidly if left within the oven too lengthy.

Serving Solutions

Rice and Veggies: Merely pair with a aspect of white or brown steamed rice and a inexperienced veggie (we love asparagus or green beans) for an entire meal.

Tacos: Slice it up and throw it in a taco. Add toppings like cabbage, bitter cream, guacamole, and a few sliced or pickled jalapeños.

Salad or Wrap: Repurpose these leftovers and use in a salad or lettuce wrap.