Lemon Herb Baked Cod with Garlic Infusion
This Lemon Herb Baked Cod with Garlic Infusion is a delightful seafood dish that's perfect for a healthy dinner. The cod fillets are tender and flaky, baked to perfection with a zesty combination of fresh lemon juice and rich olive oil. Infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and thyme, every bite is bursting with taste. This recipe is easy to prepare and low in carbs, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cod fish fillets
4 (Fresh and boneless)
Lemon juice
1.5 tablespoons (Freshly squeezed for best flavor)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (Extra virgin for enhanced flavor)
Garlic cloves
2 (Minced)
Thyme
0.5 teaspoon (Dried or fresh)
Salt
to taste (Kosher or sea salt recommended)
Black pepper
to taste (Freshly ground)
Hungarian paprika
optional (For garnish and flavor)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
Lightly grease a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3
Arrange the cod fillets in a single layer in the baking dish.
4
In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5
Pour the lemon and oil mixture evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
6
If desired, sprinkle a pinch of Hungarian paprika over the top for an extra kick and color.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
8
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lemon Herb Baked Cod with Garlic Infusion?
It is a healthy seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets baked with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
How many cod fillets are used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for 4 fresh and boneless cod fish fillets.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the best results.
How long does the cod take to bake?
The fish typically takes between 15 to 20 minutes to bake until opaque and flaky.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, this Lemon Herb Baked Cod is low in carbohydrates and suitable for keto diets.
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before starting the recipe.
What type of oil is best for this dish?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich and enhanced flavor profile.
How do I know when the cod is done?
The fish is ready when it becomes opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
What should I serve with baked cod?
It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed seasonal vegetables.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
Yes, you can use either fresh or dried thyme depending on what you have available.
Is Hungarian paprika necessary?
It is optional but highly recommended for adding a subtle kick and vibrant color to the dish.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the dish?
Lightly grease your 13 x 9 inch baking dish with olive oil before arranging the fillets.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute, though it will slightly alter the citrus flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe requires 2 cloves of garlic, minced for maximum infusion.
Should I let the fish rest after cooking?
Yes, letting the fish rest for a few minutes helps the juices redistribute for a better texture.
Is this dish considered Mediterranean?
Yes, with its use of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and white fish, it fits the Mediterranean diet perfectly.
What kind of salt is best?
Kosher or sea salt is recommended to enhance the natural flavors of the seafood.
Can I use other types of white fish?
Yes, other white fish like haddock or tilapia can be used as substitutes for cod.
How do I prepare the garlic?
The garlic should be finely minced so it mixes well with the oil and lemon juice.
Is the paprika spicy?
Hungarian paprika is generally mild but provides a depth of flavor; you can use a hot version if you prefer spice.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Can I reheat baked cod?
Yes, reheat it gently in the oven or microwave, taking care not to overcook and dry out the fish.
Is freshly squeezed lemon juice important?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is preferred as it provides a brighter, more vibrant flavor than bottled juice.
Is this a quick dinner option?
Absolutely, with a 20-minute bake time, it is ideal for busy weeknights.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes, parsley or oregano would also complement the lemon and garlic flavors well.
Does this recipe contain dairy?
No, this recipe uses olive oil instead of butter, making it completely dairy-free.
How should I arrange the fish in the pan?
Arrange the fillets in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
What is the texture of the cooked cod?
When cooked correctly, the cod should be tender, moist, and flaky.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic is best for infusion, but in a pinch, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.