Traditional Baked Cod

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
Be the First to Review!

If you're looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this Traditional Baked Cod recipe is just what you need. It's a no-fuss dish that highlights the delicate flavor of cod, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Traditional Baked Cod

Cod fillets are the star of this dish, offering a mild flavor that pairs well with herbs and spices. Choose fillets that are firm and smell fresh. Olive oil adds richness and helps the seasonings adhere to the fish. It also aids in the cooking process, ensuring a tender result.

Lemon slices infuse the cod with a subtle citrusy tang, balancing the dish with a bright burst of flavor. Dried thyme and oregano bring an earthy, aromatic depth that complements the mild cod perfectly.

Garlic powder provides a gentle hint of savory warmth without overpowering the other flavors. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural taste of the fish. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness just before serving.

Tips & Tricks

  • For even cooking, try to use fillets of similar thickness.
  • If your fillets are particularly thick, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
  • To avoid overcooking, check the cod a few minutes before the suggested baking time ends.

Serving Suggestions

This baked cod is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light, refreshing salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A serving of fluffy rice or roasted potatoes can also complement the dish nicely, offering a satisfying contrast in texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before using to ensure even cooking.
What if I don't have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley works in a pinch, but use it sparingly as its flavor is more concentrated.
Can I substitute the herbs?
Feel free to experiment with other herbs like dill or basil for a different flavor profile.

Traditional Baked Cod Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure your cod cooks evenly and comes out flaky and moist. As the oven warms up, place your cod fillets in a baking dish. Make sure they fit snugly but aren't overcrowded, so they can cook properly.

Drizzle each fillet with olive oil, ensuring they're well-coated. This will help your seasonings stick and keep the fish moist. Next, evenly sprinkle the dried thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over each piece. You want a nice, even distribution, so each bite is perfectly seasoned.

Now, arrange the lemon slices over the cod. The citrus will steam and infuse the fish as it bakes, adding a lovely brightness. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cod flakes easily with a fork.

Once baked, remove your dish from the oven and give it a moment to rest. Before serving, garnish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley for that final touch of flavor and color.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients that you probably already have.
  • Perfectly cooked cod that's moist and flaky every time.
  • Bright and fresh flavors that feel both comforting and sophisticated.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, sliced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle the thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the fillets.
4. Arrange lemon slices over the fish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!