Name: Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (6–8 ounces each); Salt and pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 4 garlic cloves (minced); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika

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When I first made this baked cod with lemon and garlic, I couldn’t believe how quick and delicious it turned out! The fish was perfectly flaky, and the combination of lemon and garlic created a flavor so refreshing and savory that my family couldn’t stop raving about it. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is so incredibly easy to make. You can also enjoy similar dishes like Cod Provençal with Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives for more mouthwatering variations. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll understand exactly why this has become my favorite seafood dish!

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (6–8 ounces each)
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika

Note: This recipe makes 4 servings.

Variations

Here are some fun ways to mix things up or cater to different dietary needs:

Herb Swap: Use dill, cilantro, or basil instead of parsley for a fresh twist.
Add Heat: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne powder for a touch of spice.
Garlic Butter: Substitute olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Citrus Boost: Add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a unique tang.

If you enjoy experimenting, don’t miss trying Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce for a flavorful twist on cod recipes.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment

Baking Dish: To bake the fish evenly.
Mixing Bowl: For preparing the marinade.
Whisk: To blend the marinade ingredients smoothly.
Parchment Paper: Prevents the fish from sticking to the baking dish and makes cleanup easy.

How to Make Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic

If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful, and quick seafood recipe, this baked cod with lemon and garlic is perfect. Its fresh ingredients and simple preparation will amaze you!

Preparing the Cod Fillets

Start by patting the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the fish hold onto the seasonings better. Generously season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper to lock in flavor.

Making the Lemon-Garlic Marinade

Grab a small mixing bowl and combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and paprika. Whisk the ingredients together until they become a fragrant and slightly thick marinade. This mixture is where all the bold, fresh flavors come from!

Marinating the Cod

Place the seasoned cod fillets in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring every fillet is well-coated. Massage the fillets gently to help the marinade soak in. Refrigerate for about 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Baking the Cod

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking dish with parchment paper and arrange the marinated cod fillets in a single layer. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The aroma of garlic, lemon, and herbs will fill your kitchen!

Looking for other delicious ways to cook cod? Our Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is another stellar option!

Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this recipe is an absolute must-try:

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cook time make it perfect for busy days.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and vitamins without any guilt.
Customizable: You can swap ingredients or adjust flavors to suit your taste.
Bursting with Flavor: The lemon-garlic combo is fresh, vibrant, and irresistible.
Diet-Friendly: Perfect for low-carb, keto, and gluten-free lifestyles.

How to Serve Baked Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic?

For a stunning presentation, place the cod fillets on a serving platter and drizzle any leftover juices from the baking dish over them. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness, and add a slice of lemon on the side for extra zing. Pair this dish with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete, satisfying meal. Don’t forget you can explore additional lunch options like this on our lunch section!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving of this dish.

Calories: 180
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fat: 8g

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is great for busy days because it can be prepared in advance with minimal hassle!

Make-Ahead Tips

You can make the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. If you want to marinate the cod beforehand, do so for up to 2 hours to enhance the flavors even more.

Storage

If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. You can also freeze baked cod for up to one month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in an oven at 350°F (175°C).

Tips for Making the Recipe

From my own experience, a few little tweaks can make this recipe even better!

Watch the Cooking Time: Cod cooks quickly. Check after 15 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Fresh is Best: Use fresh garlic, lemon, and herbs for the most vibrant flavor.
Don’t Skip the Marinade: Even a short marinating time boosts the taste.
Uniform Fillets: Choose cod fillets of similar thickness to ensure even cooking.

This baked cod recipe with lemon and garlic has become one of my go-to meals, and I can’t wait for you to try it too. Give it a shot, and I’m sure it’ll earn a place in your recipe collection as well!