Lemon Butter Baked Cod: Easy Recipe & Health Benefits

Lemon Butter Baked Cod: Imagine sinking your fork into a flaky, tender piece of cod, infused with the bright, zesty flavors of lemon and the rich, comforting taste of butter. It’s a culinary experience that’s both elegant and incredibly simple to achieve, even on a busy weeknight. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a gateway to a world of effortless gourmet dining.

While the exact origins of baking fish with lemon and butter are difficult to pinpoint, the combination itself is a timeless classic, celebrated across various cultures. The Mediterranean diet, known for its emphasis on fresh seafood and vibrant flavors, has undoubtedly played a significant role in popularizing this preparation method. The beauty of Lemon Butter Baked Cod lies in its versatility and accessibility. It’s a dish that transcends generations, appearing on both humble family dinner tables and in upscale restaurant settings.

People adore this dish for a multitude of reasons. The taste is undeniably delightful – the acidity of the lemon perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the cod, while the butter adds a luxurious richness. The texture is equally appealing; the cod becomes incredibly tender and moist during baking, practically melting in your mouth. But perhaps the biggest draw is its convenience. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a lifesaver for those seeking a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, are you ready to elevate your dinner routine with this foolproof recipe? Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Cod fillets, about 1 inch thick
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Preparing the Lemon Butter Sauce:

Okay, let’s get started! The heart of this dish is the lemon butter sauce, and it’s incredibly easy to make. This is where all the magic happens, infusing the cod with flavor and keeping it moist during baking.

1. Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or in a small saucepan over low heat. Just be careful not to burn it! We want it melted, not browned.
2. Add the Lemon Juice: Once the butter is melted, add the fresh lemon juice. The acidity of the lemon juice will balance the richness of the butter perfectly.
3. Incorporate the Garlic: Now, toss in the minced garlic. Freshly minced garlic is always best for that pungent, aromatic flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but fresh is definitely the way to go.
4. Add the Herbs and Spices: Next, add the chopped fresh parsley and chives. These herbs add a lovely freshness and visual appeal to the sauce. Don’t skip them! Then, add the lemon zest, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). The lemon zest intensifies the lemon flavor, the thyme adds an earthy note, and the red pepper flakes give it a subtle kick.
5. Season with Salt and Pepper: Finally, season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be generous with the pepper – it really complements the lemon and butter. Give everything a good whisk until it’s all nicely combined.

Preparing the Cod:

Now that our lemon butter sauce is ready, let’s get the cod prepped for baking. This part is super simple, but it’s important to do it right to ensure the cod cooks evenly and stays nice and moist.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the cod – it’s hot enough to cook it through quickly, but not so hot that it dries out.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of olive oil. This will prevent the cod from sticking to the dish. You can use a glass baking dish, a ceramic baking dish, or even a metal baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Pat the Cod Dry: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step! Removing excess moisture will help the cod brown nicely and prevent it from steaming instead of baking.
4. Arrange the Cod in the Baking Dish: Arrange the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overlapping, so they cook evenly.
5. Season the Cod: Lightly season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Remember, we already seasoned the lemon butter sauce, so don’t overdo it here.

Baking the Cod:

Alright, the moment we’ve been waiting for! It’s time to bake the cod and let all those delicious flavors meld together. This is the easiest part, so just follow these simple steps.

1. Pour the Lemon Butter Sauce Over the Cod: Pour the lemon butter sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well coated. Don’t be shy – we want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
2. Bake the Cod: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your cod fillets, so keep an eye on them. You’ll know it’s done when the fish is no longer translucent and easily separates into flakes when gently poked with a fork.
3. Check for Doneness: To be absolutely sure the cod is cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
4. Optional: Broil for a Minute: If you want a little extra browning on top, you can broil the cod for the last minute or two of baking. Just be careful not to burn it! Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s nicely browned.

Serving the Lemon Butter Baked Cod:

Congratulations, you’ve made Lemon Butter Baked Cod! Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits (or rather, fish!) of your labor. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more delicious.

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish the baked cod with extra fresh parsley and chives. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
2. Serve with Lemon Wedges: Serve the cod with lemon wedges. This allows your guests to add an extra squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
3. Pair with Sides: Serve the Lemon Butter Baked Cod with your favorite side dishes. Some great options include:
   • Roasted vegetables (asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts)
   • Steamed rice or quinoa
   • Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
   • A simple salad
4. Enjoy Immediately: The Lemon Butter Baked Cod is best served immediately while it’s still hot and juicy.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize this recipe to your liking? Here are a few tips and variations to try:

• Use Different Fish: If you don’t have cod, you can use other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or sea bass. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Add Vegetables to the Baking Dish: You can add vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish along with the cod. This makes it a complete one-pan meal.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little more heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the lemon butter sauce.
• Add Parmesan Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the cod before baking.
• Use Dried Herbs: If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1 teaspoon of dried chives.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the lemon butter sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just bring it to room temperature before using.

Storage Instructions:

If you have any leftover Lemon Butter Baked Cod, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or oven before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Lemon Butter Baked Cod! I hope you love it as much as I do. It’s a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Conclusion:

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe isn’t just another fish dish; it’s a gateway to effortless elegance in your kitchen. The flaky, tender cod, infused with the bright zest of lemon and the rich, comforting flavor of butter, creates a symphony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. It’s a weeknight wonder, ready in under 30 minutes, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Trust me, once you experience the simplicity and the incredible flavor payoff, this will become a staple in your repertoire. But the beauty of this recipe lies not only in its ease and deliciousness but also in its versatility. Looking for serving suggestions? I love pairing it with a side of fluffy quinoa or couscous to soak up all that luscious lemon butter sauce. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans make for a vibrant and healthy accompaniment. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a simple salad with a lemon vinaigrette. And don’t be afraid to experiment! Feel free to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or incorporate some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of white wine to the lemon butter sauce for a more complex and sophisticated taste. You could even top the cod with some toasted breadcrumbs for added texture and crunch. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding some chopped Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the baking dish. Or, for a more Asian-inspired flavor profile, try using ginger and soy sauce in place of some of the lemon and butter. The possibilities are truly endless! I’ve personally made this Lemon Butter Baked Cod countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great way to introduce fish to picky eaters, as the mild flavor of the cod and the bright, zesty sauce are sure to please even the most discerning palates. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to experience the magic of this recipe. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s a simple, elegant, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover your own variations! Once you’ve had a chance to make it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! Let me know how your Lemon Butter Baked Cod turns out!

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