Lemon Butter Baked Cod is the kind of dish that dances on your taste buds while simultaneously whispering sweet nothings to your soul. Imagine perfectly flaky cod fillets, drizzled with a luscious lemon butter sauce that sings with zesty brightness and aromatic herbs. Each bite is like a sunny day at the beach, where flavors mingle as harmoniously as waves crashing against the shore. For more inspiration, check out this homemade sauces recipe.
Now, picture this: you’ve had a long day, and all you want is something deliciously easy that feels special. That’s when Lemon Butter Baked Cod comes to the rescue! It brings back memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air and everyone was fighting over the last piece of fish. try a breakfast casserole Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a fancy Friday night in, this dish takes center stage, promising a flavor experience that’s both comforting and exciting. For more inspiration, check out this easy appetizer recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The preparation is so easy, even your pet goldfish could help if it had hands.
- Its flavor profile combines buttery richness with tangy lemon notes that will make your taste buds sing.
- With its beautiful presentation, you’ll feel like a gourmet chef without breaking a sweat.
- This dish adapts well to various sides—pair it with veggies or rice for a complete meal!
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cod Fillets: Look for fresh or frozen fillets; they should be firm and have a mild scent.
- Unsalted Butter: This adds richness; feel free to substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic makes all the difference; choose plump cloves for maximum flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Squeeze some fresh lemons for that vibrant tang—it elevates everything!
- Dill: This herb adds an aromatic touch; fresh dill works best but dried will suffice in a pinch.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing all the flavors in this dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, grab a baking dish and give it a quick spritz with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod
Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Season them generously with salt and pepper—don’t be shy! You want those flavors to pop.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add minced garlic and let it simmer until fragrant—about one minute. Then stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped dill.
Step 4: Drizzle it On
Pour that heavenly lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets. Make sure every inch of those fishy delights gets some love!
Step 5: Bake Away
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cod flakes easily with a fork. Pro tip: Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; you want golden perfection without overcooking!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your masterpiece to plates, drizzle any remaining sauce over them, and garnish with extra dill or lemon slices if you’re feeling fancy. Voilà! Dinner is served.
With these straightforward steps, you’ll impress everyone at your dinner table while enjoying stress-free cooking time in your kitchen!
You Must Know
- This delightful lemon butter baked cod is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a simple, elegant dish that makes weeknight dinners feel gourmet.
- The zesty lemon and rich butter create a symphony of flavors that will impress your guests.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly flaky cod, start by preheating your oven while you prepare the lemon butter sauce. Sear the fish in a skillet briefly before transferring it to the oven for baking. This method ensures an irresistible crust while keeping the center tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish! Swap out cod for halibut or salmon if desired. Add capers for a briny kick, or sprinkle fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. Get creative with your favorite seasonings!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, seal them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the fish’s moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect lemon butter baked cod, always choose fresh fish for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip searing; it locks in moisture beautifully.
- Let the fish rest after baking for enhanced juiciness and taste.
It was my sister’s birthday dinner when I first made this lemon butter baked cod. Watching her savor every bite while claiming it was “the best fish ever” made all my culinary efforts worth it!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Lemon Butter Baked Cod?
To prepare Lemon Butter Baked Cod, you’ll need fresh cod fillets, unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Optionally, you can include lemon slices for garnish and a pinch of paprika for added flavor. This simple ingredient list ensures that the dish highlights the mild taste of cod while the lemon and butter enhance its richness.
How long does it take to bake Lemon Butter Baked Cod?
Baking Lemon Butter Baked Cod typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes at a temperature of 400°F (200°C). The key is to ensure the fish flakes easily with a fork when done. The exact time may vary slightly based on the thickness of your cod fillets, so keep an eye on them as they cook to achieve perfect results.
Can I use frozen cod for Lemon Butter Baked Cod?
Yes, you can use frozen cod for this recipe. Just thaw the fish completely before baking it. Thawing allows for even cooking and better absorption of flavors from the lemon butter sauce. For best results, place the frozen fillets in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water until defrosted before cooking.
What side dishes pair well with Lemon Butter Baked Cod?
Lemon Butter Baked Cod pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a healthy option. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes or a light quinoa salad can complement the fish’s flavors nicely. accompany your cod with a salad A fresh garden salad also works well to round out your meal.
Conclusion for Lemon Butter Baked Cod:
In conclusion, Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delightful dish that combines simplicity and elegance. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that impresses family and friends alike. Remember to adjust baking times based on the thickness of your cod fillets for optimal results. pair it with chicken street tacos Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience that showcases the best of seafood cuisine!
Lemon Butter Baked Cod
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delightful dish that brings the essence of the ocean to your dinner table. Featuring tender, flaky cod fillets drenched in a rich lemon butter sauce infused with aromatic garlic and fresh dill, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With minimal effort, you can impress your family and friends with a gourmet meal that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. Experience the vibrant flavors and comforting textures that make this dish a must-try!
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Season the cod fillets generously with salt and pepper; place them in the baking dish.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter; add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in lemon juice and dill.
- Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve hot, garnished with remaining sauce and extra dill or lemon slices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
