Lemon Butter Baked Cod

My family are not always the easiest to please when it comes to dinner, especially my youngest who seems to have an aversion to anything green and anything that isn’t chicken nuggets. So, when I decided to try Lemon Butter Baked Cod for the first time, I was prepared for the usual chorus of ‘I don’t like fish!’. However, to my utter surprise, this dish was a resounding success! The flaky, tender cod, infused with the bright, zesty lemon and rich, creamy butter, was absolutely irresistible. Even my picky eater devoured it, declaring it ‘the best fish ever!’. The ease of preparation was another huge win for me – it’s a dish that feels elegant and flavorful but requires minimal effort, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This Lemon Butter Baked Cod has become a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share this incredibly simple yet utterly delicious recipe with you. Get ready to enjoy a seafood dish that will win over even the most skeptical palates!

Ingredients

• Cod Fillets: 1.5 – 2 lbs, fresh or frozen (thawed), the star of the dish, providing a mild, flaky white fish base.
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, melted, adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, enhancing the flavor of the cod.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: ¼ cup, brightens the dish with its zesty acidity, cutting through the richness of the butter.
• Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon, intensifies the lemon flavor, adding aromatic oils and a vibrant citrus note.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, provides a savory depth and aromatic complexity to complement the lemon and butter.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, adds a fresh, herbaceous element and a pop of color as a garnish.
• Fresh Dill: 1 tablespoon, chopped, offers a delicate, slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with fish and lemon.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon, provides a subtle earthy and slightly minty undertone, enhancing the overall herb profile.
• Salt: To taste, enhances the flavors of all ingredients and seasons the cod perfectly.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste, adds a touch of spice and depth, balancing the richness and acidity.
• Optional: White Wine: ¼ cup, dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), can be added for extra depth of flavor in the sauce.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking cod, ensuring it cooks through evenly without drying out. While the oven is preheating, prepare your baking dish. A 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly for this recipe, providing ample space for the cod fillets to cook in a single layer. Lightly grease the baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This will prevent the cod from sticking to the bottom and make cleanup easier later on.
2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small, microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan, melt the ½ cup of unsalted butter. Melting the butter first allows it to easily combine with the other sauce ingredients and ensures a smooth, emulsified sauce. If using a microwave, melt the butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted. If using a saucepan, melt over low heat, being careful not to brown or burn the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. If you are using white wine, add the ¼ cup of dry white wine at this stage as well. Stir all ingredients together thoroughly until well combined. The lemon juice will react with the melted butter, creating a slightly thickened, fragrant sauce. The herbs and garlic will infuse their flavors into the butter, creating a delicious and aromatic base for the cod. Season the sauce generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure the sauce is perfectly balanced to your liking.
3. Prepare the Cod Fillets: If using frozen cod, ensure it is completely thawed before cooking. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture from the surface of the cod will help it bake rather than steam, resulting in a better texture and allowing the lemon butter sauce to adhere properly. Arrange the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure the fillets are not overlapping, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If you have thicker fillets, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.
4. Pour the Lemon Butter Sauce Over the Cod: Evenly pour the prepared lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets, ensuring that each fillet is generously coated. The sauce should pool slightly in the dish, surrounding the cod. This sauce will keep the cod moist and flavorful during baking and create a delicious pan sauce that can be spooned over the cod when serving.
5. Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your cod fillets and your oven. To check for doneness, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of a fillet. If the cod flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it is cooked through. Be careful not to overbake the cod, as this can make it dry and tough. Overbaked cod will become rubbery and lose its delicate flakiness.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once the cod is baked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or dill, if desired, for a pop of fresh color and flavor. Serving immediately is recommended to enjoy the cod at its best texture and temperature. Spoon the flavorful lemon butter sauce from the baking dish over the cod fillets when serving to enhance the moistness and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this delectable Lemon Butter Baked Cod!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, approximate, based on 4 servings using 2 lbs of cod. Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (approximately 4-6 oz cooked cod). This recipe is designed to serve approximately 4 people comfortably.
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving. This makes it a relatively light and healthy main course option, especially considering it’s packed with protein.
• Protein: Around 40-45 grams per serving. Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as overall satiety.
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving. This includes healthy fats from the butter and omega-3 fatty acids naturally present in cod, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Sodium: Varies depending on salt added, approximately 300-400mg per serving. You can control the sodium content by adjusting the amount of salt added to the recipe.
• Vitamin D: Cod is a good source of Vitamin D. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, and calcium absorption.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes. This includes gathering ingredients, melting butter, zesting and juicing lemon, mincing garlic and chopping herbs, and preparing the baking dish. The recipe is quick to assemble, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes. Baking time is relatively short, making it a fast and efficient cooking method for cod. The total time from start to finish is under 40 minutes, making it a convenient meal option.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and balanced meal:

• Classic Sides:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper are excellent choices. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and provides a healthy and flavorful contrast to the richness of the cod.
  • Steamed Green Beans: A simple and healthy side that complements the lemon butter flavor. You can toss steamed green beans with a little lemon juice and olive oil for extra brightness.
  • Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce. These grains provide a satisfying carbohydrate base for the meal.
  • Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed potatoes or a lighter cauliflower mash offer a comforting and satisfying side dish. The richness of the mash complements the delicate cod beautifully.
• Fresh and Light Options:
  • Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the cod. Consider a salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
  • Lemon Herb Couscous: Couscous is quick to prepare and can be flavored with lemon zest, herbs, and a touch of olive oil for a light and flavorful side.
  • Caprese Salad: The classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a light and refreshing option, especially during warmer months.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread, such as baguette or sourdough, to mop up every last bit of the flavorful lemon butter sauce. The bread adds texture and makes the meal more substantial.
• Sauces and Garnishes:
  • Extra Lemon Wedges: Serve with extra lemon wedges for those who like an extra burst of citrus.
  • Tartar Sauce: For a classic pairing, serve with homemade or store-bought tartar sauce on the side.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish with extra fresh parsley, dill, or chives for added freshness and visual appeal.

Additional Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Baked Cod

1. Choose High-Quality Cod: Opt for fresh, wild-caught cod if possible for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen cod, ensure it is thawed completely and patted dry before cooking. High-quality cod will have a firmer texture and a cleaner taste.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Arrange the cod fillets in a single layer in the baking dish. Overcrowding can cause the cod to steam instead of bake, resulting in uneven cooking and a less desirable texture. If necessary, use two baking dishes or bake in batches.
3. Adjust Baking Time Based on Thickness: The baking time will vary depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. Thicker fillets will require a longer baking time. Check for doneness around 15 minutes and adjust accordingly. Use a fork to gently flake the cod to check if it’s cooked through.
4. Enhance the Flavor with White Wine: Adding a splash of dry white wine to the lemon butter sauce adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements the lemon and fish.
5. Customize the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor. Other herbs that pair well with cod and lemon include oregano, rosemary, and chives. You can also adjust the quantities of parsley and dill to your preference.
6. Add Vegetables to the Baking Dish: For a complete one-pan meal, add vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli florets, cherry tomatoes, or sliced bell peppers to the baking dish alongside the cod. Toss the vegetables with a little olive oil and seasoning before adding them to the dish. They will roast alongside the cod and absorb the delicious lemon butter sauce.
7. Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional): For a slightly browned and crispy top, you can broil the cod for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning. Broiling adds a nice textural contrast to the flaky cod.
8. Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, simply pour the sauce over the cod fillets and bake. This can save time on busy weeknights. However, it’s best to bake the cod fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lemon Butter Baked Cod

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe? Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cod. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. Thawing it overnight in the refrigerator is the best method. Pat the thawed cod fillets dry with paper towels before baking to remove excess moisture.
2. What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried herbs instead? While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs if needed. If substituting dried herbs for fresh, use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and ½ teaspoon of dried dill for this recipe, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
3. Can I use margarine instead of butter? For the best flavor and texture, unsalted butter is highly recommended. Margarine can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the taste and richness of the sauce. Butter contributes a distinct flavor and richness that is essential to the classic lemon butter sauce.
4. How do I know when the cod is cooked through? Cod is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking, as it can become dry and rubbery. Gently flake a piece with a fork to check for doneness.
5. Can I add cheese to this recipe? While this recipe is traditionally made without cheese, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs on top of the cod before baking for a slightly different texture and flavor. Adding cheese or breadcrumbs will create a light crust on top of the cod.
6. Can I bake other types of fish using this recipe? Yes, this lemon butter sauce is delicious with other flaky white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut. Adjust baking time accordingly based on the thickness of the fish fillets. The principles of this recipe work well with various types of white fish.
7. How long can I store leftover baked cod? Leftover baked cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. Be mindful that reheated fish may not be as flaky as freshly baked fish.
8. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? It’s best to bake the cod fresh for the best texture and flavor. However, you can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, simply pour the sauce over the cod and bake. This can save time on busy weeknights.

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