Baked Lemon-Herb Cod
A light and flavorful Baked Lemon-Herb Cod recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
For 2 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good texture and allowing the flavors to adhere. Season both sides of the fillets lightly with 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried dill, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until well combined.
Place the seasoned cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon or brush the lemon-herb mixture generously over the top of each fillet, ensuring an even coating. If desired, place a few thin lemon slices on top of each fillet for added flavor and presentation.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fillets; thinner fillets will cook faster.
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the cod rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite complementary side dishes.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcook: Cod is a lean fish and can dry out quickly. Begin checking for doneness at the 12-minute mark by gently flaking the thickest part with a fork. It should be opaque and separate easily.
- 2Pat Dry Thoroughly: Always pat your fish dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking. This removes surface moisture, allowing the seasonings to penetrate better and preventing the fish from steaming instead of baking.
- 3Customize Your Herbs: While dried dill is classic, feel free to experiment with other dried or fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or a blend of Italian herbs. If using fresh herbs, use about three times the amount compared to dried.
- 4Parchment Paper is Key: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes cleanup a breeze but also helps prevent the delicate fish from sticking to the pan.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Replace dill with dried oregano, thyme, or a blend of Italian herbs. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives can also be added for a brighter finish.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon-herb mixture for a subtle heat that complements the tangy lemon.
Different FishDifferent Fish
This recipe works beautifully with other white fish like tilapia, halibut, or snapper. Adjust baking time as needed for the specific thickness of the fish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3s
Cod is a good source of lean protein and contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health and reduce inflammation.
Vitamin C Boost
Lemon juice provides a significant amount of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant crucial for immune function, collagen production, and overall skin health.
Low Calorie & Lean Protein
This dish is naturally low in calories and high in lean protein, making it an excellent choice for weight management, muscle maintenance, and satiety.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen cod. Ensure it is fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight and thoroughly patted dry with paper towels before proceeding with the recipe to prevent a watery texture.
