Simple Baked Cod with Lemon & Herbs
A simple, elegant dinner that's packed with iodine and flavor. Baking the cod with fresh lemon and aromatic herbs keeps it incredibly moist and delicious in under 20 minutes.
For 2 servings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Gently pat the cod fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving an even cook and preventing the fish from steaming.
In a small bowl, combine the iodized salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried dill. Mix well to create your seasoning blend.
Place the dried cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle generously with olive oil, ensuring both sides are lightly coated. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
Squeeze the juice from half of the lemon over the seasoned cod. Slice the remaining half of the lemon into thin rounds and arrange them on top of and around the fish.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish immediately with the fresh chopped dill before serving.
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 cooks quickly. Overcooked cod becomes dry and rubbery. Start checking for doneness at 10-12 minutes, especially for thinner fillets.
- 2Pat Dry for Best Results: Always pat fish fillets dry before seasoning. This helps create a better texture and allows seasonings to adhere more effectively.
- 3Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper prevents the fish from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- 4Serve Immediately: Baked cod is best enjoyed fresh from the oven to savor its moist texture and vibrant flavors.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme instead of or in addition to dill for a different aromatic profile.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
For a complete sheet pan meal, bake alongside quick-cooking vegetables such as asparagus spears, cherry tomatoes, or thin-sliced zucchini.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Introduce a subtle heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix before sprinkling over the cod.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Iodine
Cod is an excellent natural source of iodine, a vital mineral crucial for healthy thyroid hormone production and overall metabolic function.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Provides high-quality, lean protein essential for muscle repair, growth, and satiety, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Contains beneficial omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that support heart health, brain function, and help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
The cod is done when it turns opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. For food safety, the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
