Description
Are you on the lookout for a recipe that seamlessly fits into your busy lifestyle while still being a treat for the taste buds? Look no further because Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is here to save the day! This dish is not just delicious; it’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something light yet satisfying. Trust me, your family will thank you, and you’ll feel like a culinary rock star!
Ingredients
Scale
Before we get to the magic, here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cod fillets (fresh or frozen, because let’s be real, life happens!)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (feel free to increase this if you’re a garlic lover!)
- Juice of 1 lemon (and some zest if you’re feeling fancy)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (because we eat with our eyes too!)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is where the magic will happen!
- Prepare the Cod: If you’re using frozen cod, make sure it’s fully thawed. Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel to ensure they cook up beautifully.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This mixture is like sunshine in a bowl!
- Place the Cod in a Baking Dish: Lay the cod fillets in a greased baking dish. Breathe in that fresh cod aroma—delicious!
- Pour and Coat: Drizzle the lemon-garlic mixture over the fillets, making sure each piece is well-coated. No one likes a shy fish!
- Bake Away: Pop your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. It’s like waiting for a surprise party—you can hardly contain your excitement!
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, sprinkle with fresh parsley for that extra touch of green and serve with your favorite sides. I recommend some roasted veggies or a vibrant salad to round it all out.
Notes
- Don’t Skimp on the Lemon: Adding lemon zest enhances the flavors, bringing a fresh pop that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Go Easy on the Garlic: If you want a milder flavor, reduce the garlic. But let’s be honest, can there ever be too much garlic?
- Check for Doneness: A good rule of thumb for fish is to bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If you don’t have a thermometer handy, just fork it! If it flakes nicely, it’s ready to go.