Let me tell you, there’s something just magical about baked lemon butter cod! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a gourmet meal but is so incredibly simple to whip up. I remember the first time I made it; the kitchen filled with the bright, zesty aroma of lemon and garlic, and I couldn’t help but feel like a culinary superstar! This dish is not only healthy but also bursting with flavor, thanks to the rich butter and fresh lemon. Trust me, once you try this baked lemon butter cod, it’ll become a regular on your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, it’s a winner every time!
Ingredients List
To make my baked lemon butter cod, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together in a delightful way. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested (fresh lemons make all the difference!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skip this; it adds so much flavor!)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional but oh-so-pretty!)
Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly this all comes together!
How to Prepare Baked Lemon Butter Cod
Now, let’s dive into the magic of preparing this baked lemon butter cod! Don’t worry; it’s super straightforward and will have your taste buds dancing in no time. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table before you know it!
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This gets things nice and hot for our cod!
- While the oven heats up, grab a mixing bowl and combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely mixed.
- Next, take your cod fillets and place them in a baking dish. Make sure they’re spaced out a bit so they cook evenly.
- Now, pour that luscious lemon butter mixture over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well-coated. It’s like giving your fish a little spa treatment!
- Time to bake! Slide the dish into your preheated oven and let it cook for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cod flakes easily with a fork—just like a dream!
- Once out of the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color and freshness. It makes a world of difference!
And there you have it! A stunning baked lemon butter cod that’s as easy as it is delicious. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to soak up that buttery lemon goodness with some crusty bread or a side of rice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon, butter, and garlic creates a mouthwatering taste that’s simply irresistible.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in fat, this dish is a guilt-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Impressive Presentation: With its bright flavors and colorful garnish, it looks as good as it tastes—ideal for impressing guests!
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it with a variety of sides like steamed veggies or rice, making it a flexible option for any meal.
- Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish, as it’s both mild and flavorful, appealing to all ages.
Tips for Success
Now, let’s make sure your baked lemon butter cod turns out absolutely perfect every single time! Here are my favorite tips that I’ve gathered from countless delicious dinners:
- Check the Thickness: Cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your cod fillets. Thinner fillets may only need 10-12 minutes, while thicker ones could take up to 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and use a fork to test if they flake easily.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: If possible, opt for fresh lemons instead of bottled juice. Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten up the dish and really make the flavors pop!
- Butter Alternatives: If you want to lighten things up even more, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil. It’ll still taste great while cutting down on saturated fat!
- Make It Zesty: For an extra zing, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon butter mixture. It gives a delightful kick that complements the cod beautifully.
- Serving Suggestions: Don’t skimp on the sides! Pair this dish with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a light salad. You could even serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or rice to soak up all that luscious lemon butter.
- Garnish Ideas: While parsley is lovely, feel free to experiment! Chopped chives or dill work wonderfully as a garnish too, adding a fresh twist.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this baked lemon butter cod recipe. Enjoy cooking and savor every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying baked lemon butter cod, it’s great to know what you’re putting into your body! This dish is not only delightful but also packed with protein while being low in fat. However, keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can’t provide precise numbers, here’s a general estimation based on typical values for one serving:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sugar: 1g
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, and enjoy this healthy, tasty meal without any guilt!
FAQ Section
Got questions about baked lemon butter cod? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my best tips to help you create this delicious dish:
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely before baking. If you’re in a pinch, you can bake them from frozen, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked through!
What can I substitute for butter?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, olive oil is a great alternative. It’ll still give you that lovely flavor without the extra saturated fat. You could also try using a plant-based butter if you’re keeping it dairy-free!
How do I know when the cod is done?
The best way to check is by using a fork. When the cod flakes easily and is opaque all the way through, it’s ready to go! Typically, it takes about 12-15 minutes in the oven, depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Can I add other flavors to the lemon butter mixture?
For sure! Feel free to get creative—add some fresh herbs like thyme or dill, or toss in a splash of white wine for extra depth. You could even throw in some capers for a briny twist!
What sides pair well with baked lemon butter cod?
This dish is super versatile! I love serving it with steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, but you can also go for a light salad or even some fluffy rice to soak up that buttery lemon sauce. Whatever you choose, it’ll be delicious!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers of your baked lemon butter cod? Yes, please! Here’s how to store and reheat it to keep all that delicious flavor intact:
First, let the cod cool down to room temperature before packing it away. You don’t want to trap steam in your container, as that can make the fish soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer the cod fillets to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to separate them with parchment paper if I have extra space, just to avoid any sticking!
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod in a baking dish and cover it loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. You’ll know it’s ready when that buttery lemon aroma fills your kitchen again!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it in the microwave. Just pop it on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed. Be careful not to overdo it, though—nobody likes rubbery fish!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor your baked lemon butter cod all over again, enjoying every last flavorful bite!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up a fabulous baked lemon butter cod, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this delicious dish! The right sides can really elevate your meal and complement those bright, zesty flavors. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed asparagus, green beans, or broccoli make a perfect, colorful side that adds a nice crunch and freshness to your plate.
- Fluffy Rice: Serve your cod over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all that luscious lemon butter sauce. You can even add a bit of lemon zest to the rice for extra flavor!
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of olive oil can add a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the fish.
- Crispy Potatoes: Roasted baby potatoes or a simple potato salad can add heartiness to your meal. The crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the tender cod.
- Light Salad: A mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad pairs wonderfully, bringing in some crunch and a hint of acidity.
- Pairing Drinks: Don’t forget about drinks! A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy lemonade can enhance the meal and refresh your palate.
With these suggestions, your baked lemon butter cod dinner will be a complete and satisfying experience that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every tasty bite and feel free to mix and match according to your cravings!
Call to Action
Alright, my fellow home cooks, it’s time to get involved! I’d absolutely love to hear how your baked lemon butter cod turned out. Did you make any fun tweaks or add your own special touch? Please share your experiences in the comments below! Your feedback not only makes my day but helps others discover the joys of this recipe too.
If you enjoyed this dish as much as I do, consider giving it a rating! It really helps spread the word about this delightful meal. And don’t forget to snap a picture of your finished dish—I’d be thrilled if you shared it on social media. Tag me, and let’s celebrate our culinary adventures together! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see what you create!
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Baked Lemon Butter Cod: 5 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and flavorful baked lemon butter cod recipe that is healthy and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Place cod fillets in a baking dish.
- Pour the lemon butter mixture over the cod fillets.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, until cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the cod fillets.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: baked lemon butter cod
