Baked Cod With Lemon
A light and flaky baked cod recipe, seasoned with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs. Served with tender steamed broccoli, this healthy one-pan meal is ready in under 30 minutes and is naturally low in sodium.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- b.Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- c.Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel and set aside.
- d.Juice half of the lemon into a small bowl and slice the other half thinly.
TIPPatting the fish dry helps it to bake evenly and prevents it from getting soggy. - 2
Step 2
- 3
Step 3
- a.Place the broccoli florets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- b.Arrange the cod fillets among the broccoli.
- c.Pour the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over each cod fillet.
- d.Top each fillet with one or two lemon slices.
- 4
Step 4
TIPCooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking. - 5
Step 5
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure the cod fillets are of similar thickness for even cooking. If one end is much thinner, you can tuck it under.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Use a large enough baking sheet so the fish and broccoli have space to cook, not just steam.
- 3For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of paprika or onion powder to the seasoning mix.
- 4This dish is best served immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Increase the cod portion to 200g (about 7 oz) per serving for an extra protein boost.
quickQuick
Use pre-cut broccoli florets and jarred minced garlic to reduce preparation time.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Serve with a side of plain yogurt or a mild tartar sauce for dipping. Omit the black pepper if sensitive to spice.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Cod provides high-quality protein essential for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function, with very little saturated fat.
Supports Heart Health
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this dish helps reduce inflammation and supports cardiovascular health. The absence of added salt makes it ideal for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Broccoli is packed with Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber, which supports immune function and digestive health.
Low in Calories
This meal is light yet satisfying, making it a perfect choice for weight management without sacrificing flavor or nutrients.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this is a very healthy dish. Cod is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Baking is a low-fat cooking method, and this recipe is intentionally low in sodium, making it great for heart health and blood pressure management.