Description
Mediterranean-inspired baked cod shines with zesty lemon and roasted garlic, creating a light yet luxurious seafood experience. Crisp herbs and delicate fish promise a quick, elegant dinner that will delight both home cooks and seafood enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 8-ounce (226 grams) cod fillets
Herbs and Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/8 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon dill
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Liquids and Accent Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 lemon (sliced)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating it to a precise temperature of 400°F (200°C), ensuring optimal cooking conditions for the delicate cod.
- Craft a vibrant herb-infused butter by blending softened butter with a harmonious mix of olive oil, zesty lemon juice, aromatic minced garlic, verdant parsley, earthy thyme, smoky paprika, delicate dill, and a touch of salt.
- Create a flavorful base in a baking dish by spreading a thin layer of the herbed butter, which will prevent the fish from sticking and impart additional depth of flavor.
- Carefully nestle the cod fillets into the prepared dish, generously coating each piece with the herb butter and artfully surrounding them with bright lemon slices.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven, allowing the fish to bake for approximately 20 minutes until it becomes translucent and effortlessly flakes when tested with a fork.
- Serve the fish immediately, presenting the golden, herb-crusted cod with an optional sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- Prep the herb butter mixture ahead of time to let flavors meld and intensify before cooking.
- Check fish doneness by gently pressing the fillet; it should flake easily and appear opaque white throughout.
- Choose fresh herbs for maximum flavor impact, avoiding dried alternatives when possible.
- Lemon slices not only add zesty brightness but also help keep the fish moist during baking.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the fish at its peak tenderness and temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg