This Easy Lemon Herb Baked Cod is a light and tasty dish perfect for any dinner. With fresh lemon juice and a mix of herbs, it brings a bright flavor to the flaky fish.
Making this is so simple! Just season the cod, pop it in the oven, and relax while it bakes. I love serving it with veggies or rice for a wholesome meal—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Cod is a mild, flaky fish that cooks well. If you can’t find cod, feel free to swap it with other fish like haddock, tilapia, or even salmon for a different flavor.
Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: I often use Greek yogurt because it’s lighter and adds a nice tang. If you need dairy-free options, you can use vegan mayo or even a blended avocado for creaminess.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs work too—just use less (1/3 of the amount). Basil or thyme can also be tasty alternatives.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice crunch! If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes. Regular breadcrumbs will work, but they may be less crunchy.
How Can You Make Sure Your Cod is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking cod just right is key to enjoying its soft texture. Follow these steps to ensure it comes out perfectly every time:
- Start with fresh or thawed cod fillets—pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; it usually takes about 12-15 minutes. Cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork—don’t overcook!
Letting it rest for a few minutes after baking helps the juices settle in, making it even tastier. Enjoy your meal with lemon wedges for that extra zing!
Easy Lemon Herb Baked Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 12-15 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy dinner option. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden topping!
2. Make the Lemon Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, dill (if you’re using it), and minced garlic. Stir until everything is well mixed. This blend will add lots of flavor to the cod!
3. Prepare the Cod Fillets:
Next, place the cod fillets on a lined or greased baking sheet. Use paper towels to gently pat them dry, and season both sides with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
4. Spread the Herb Mixture:
Evenly spread the lemon herb mixture over the top of each fillet. Make sure to cover them well so every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs:
In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and paprika. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture over the cod fillets, gently pressing it down to help it stick.
6. Bake the Cod:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish looks opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The topping should be nice and golden!
7. Let it Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the cod rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy and makes serving easier.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your baked cod with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. It pairs wonderfully with steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delightful and easy lemon herb baked cod!
FAQ for Easy Lemon Herb Baked Cod
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just make sure to thaw it completely before preparing the recipe. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat the fillets dry before seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast works well and adds a nice cheesy taste without the dairy!
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Cod?
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, making sure not to overcook it, so the fish remains tender.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Cod?
This cod pairs beautifully with many sides! I recommend serving it alongside steamed vegetables (like asparagus or broccoli), fluffy rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy!
