This Easy Lemon Herb Baked Cod is a bright and tasty dish! With fresh lemon, herbs, and flaky cod, it’s perfect for a light dinner that feels fancy without the fuss.
I love how quick this meal is to prepare. Just season the fish, pop it in the oven, and relax while it cooks. Plus, the smell of lemon fills the kitchen—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Cod is great for baking because it’s mild and flaky. If cod isn’t available, try tilapia or haddock as good substitutes. They both have a similar texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps blend the flavors. If you’re looking for a different taste, feel free to use melted butter instead for a slightly different flavor profile.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon juice gives the dish a bright flavor, while the zest adds another layer of lemony goodness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always better!
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme add a lovely herbal note. If you prefer fresh herbs, swap in a tablespoon of each for a fresher taste. You can also use basil or dill for a twist.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Baked Cod?
Getting your cod just right is super important. Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly cooked:
- **Preheat**: Make sure your oven is hot before baking. A steady 400°F (200°C) is perfect for cooking cod evenly.
- **Timing**: Bake for 12-15 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque. Check it around 12 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- **Check for doneness**: If you’re unsure, insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. It should easily flake apart.
Getting the timing right will make your cod moist and flavorful every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Easy Lemon Herb Baked Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 5 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to cook, so you can have it ready in about 20 minutes! It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, your cod will cook evenly and come out perfect. While the oven is heating, you can prepare your baking dish. Lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup!
2. Mix the Flavorful Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. This mixture will add so much flavor to your cod!
3. Prepare the Cod:
Place the cod fillets in your prepared baking dish. Using a brush or a spoon, evenly spread the lemon herb mixture over each fillet. Make sure each piece gets a good amount of that tasty sauce!
4. Bake the Cod:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. Remember, cooking times may vary a little based on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them!
5. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once your cod is out of the oven, you can garnish it with fresh parsley and lemon slices if you want an extra touch of color and flavor. This makes it look even more appetizing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Lemon Herb Baked Cod immediately while it’s warm. Pair it with your favorite side dishes—like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy this light and flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Cod Fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag submersed in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemon Juice?
No problem! You can use bottled lemon juice instead, but fresh juice gives a brighter flavor. If you’re using bottled, about 2 tablespoons will work just fine!
Can I Substitute Different Herbs?
Absolutely! While oregano and thyme work beautifully, you can use fresh herbs like dill or basil for a change in flavor. If using fresh herbs, use about three times the amount as the dried versions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or oven at a low setting to avoid drying out the cod.
