Lemon-Dill Baked Cod
This Lemon-Dill Baked Cod is a quick, elegant, and healthy dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes, featuring flaky cod infused with bright lemon and aromatic dill.
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 very dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good texture and preventing the fish from steaming. Season both sides of the fillets lightly with iodized salt and freshly ground black pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice (from about half of the lemon), lemon zest (from the entire lemon), dried dill, and garlic powder until well combined.
Place the seasoned cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the lemon-dill mixture evenly over each fillet, ensuring they are well coated on top.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your cod fillets; thinner fillets will cook faster.
Carefully transfer the baked cod to individual serving plates. Squeeze the remaining fresh lemon juice over the top of each fillet and garnish with fresh chopped dill, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Avoid overcooking: Cod can dry out quickly. Start checking for doneness at 12 minutes; it should be opaque and flake easily, but still moist.
- 2Patting dry is key: Removing excess moisture from the fish before seasoning helps create a better texture and allows the flavors to adhere more effectively.
- 3Fresh lemon makes a difference: Always use fresh lemon for both juice and zest; bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor and aroma.
- 4Pair with simple sides: This delicate fish pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, a light quinoa salad, or brown rice.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Substitute dried dill with 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley, chives, or a blend of dried Italian herbs for a different aromatic profile.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes (about 1/4 teaspoon) to the lemon-dill mixture for a subtle, warming heat.
Citrus TwistCitrus Twist
Replace lemon with lime for a sharper, more zesty flavor, or use a combination of lemon and orange zest for a sweeter, more complex citrus note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Iodine
Cod is an excellent source of iodine, a crucial mineral for thyroid hormone production, which regulates metabolism and energy levels.
Lean Protein Source
This dish provides high-quality, lean protein from the cod, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety without excessive calories.
Antioxidant Boost
Lemon and olive oil contribute antioxidants and Vitamin C, which help protect cells from damage and support immune function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water, then pat them very dry before proceeding with the recipe.
