Baked Cod

Baked Cod Recipe

Baked cod is a simple and delicious dish that anyone can make at home. It’s healthy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients, this recipe allows the natural taste of the cod to shine through. It’s an ideal meal when you want something light yet satisfying.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make baked cod. First, it’s an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Second, the cooking process is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy days. Lastly, this recipe is versatile; you can pair it with a wide range of sides or top it with different sauces and seasonings to suit your taste.

How to Make Baked Cod

Making baked cod is straightforward and requires little prep time. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients

1. 1.1 lb (500 g) cod fish (4 fillets about 1 inch thick, fresh or frozen)
2. 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
3. 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed recommended)
4. ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)
5. ¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
6. Smoked paprika (optional to taste)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a glass or ceramic baking dish (about 11 x 7 inches) with foil or parchment paper.
2. If using frozen cod, ensure it is completely thawed and patted dry with paper towels.
3. Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and then season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika or seasonings of your choice. Make sure to evenly distribute oil and seasonings.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fillets are opaque and flake easily with a fork. Be careful not to overbake, as cod tends to dry out quickly.
5. Serve warm, drizzled with more olive oil and fresh lemon juice on top.

How to Serve Baked Cod

Baked cod is great when served with a variety of sides. You can enjoy it alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. For added flavor, finish with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

How to Store Baked Cod

To store baked cod, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 2 days. You can also freeze the baked cod if you’d like to keep it longer. Just ensure it is cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.

Tips to Make Baked Cod

• Make sure to pat the fish dry before seasoning. This helps the seasoning stick better and improves the flavor.
• Don’t overbake the cod. Cooking it just until it flakes easily ensures it stays moist.
• Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite combination!

Variation

For a twist on this recipe, try adding chopped garlic or herbs like dill or parsley on top of the fish before baking. You can also substitute the olive oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just make sure it is completely thawed and dried before seasoning.

2. What should I do if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can omit it or replace it with regular paprika, garlic powder, or a spice blend of your choice.

3. How do I know when the cod is done?
The cod is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overbake, as cod can become dry.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this tasty and easy baked cod recipe!