Delicious Lemon Pepper Baked Cod

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings out the best in cod, making it flavorful and juicy without overpowering the delicate taste of the fish. The combination of fresh lemon juice, zest, and pepper gives the fish a bright, aromatic flavor, while the garlic powder adds a savory depth. It’s quick to prepare and bakes in no time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a healthy meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Cod:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better.

Season the Cod:

1. Make the seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine.
2. Coat the fillets: Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray. Drizzle the lemon pepper mixture evenly over the fillets, making sure they’re well coated on both sides.

Bake the Cod:

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.

Serve:

1. Garnish: Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
2. Serve: Serve the Lemon Pepper Baked Cod with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs: You can add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the seasoning mixture for extra flavor.
• Spicy version: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Make it buttery: For extra richness, melt a tablespoon of butter and drizzle it over the cod along with the olive oil.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Lemon Pepper Baked Cod can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the cod in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or flounder. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking, as this helps it cook more evenly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the cod is best served fresh, you can prepare the seasoning mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Coat the cod fillets just before baking for the best results.

Can I grill the cod instead of baking it?

Yes, you can grill the cod. Simply heat the grill to medium-high, brush the fish with the lemon pepper seasoning, and cook it on the grill for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

Can I add a lemon glaze to the fish?

Yes, you can make a simple lemon glaze by combining lemon juice, honey, and a bit of olive oil. Brush this over the cod during the last few minutes of baking for a touch of sweetness.

Conclusion

This Delicious Lemon Pepper Baked Cod is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy fish. With bright lemon and zesty pepper flavors, the fish comes out tender and flaky every time. It’s the perfect meal for any occasion, easy enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough for special gatherings. Whether served with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to be a hit!

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