Baked Cod with Lemon & Garlic: Light, Zesty, and Ready in 20 Minutes!
Flaky, fresh, and bursting with citrusy goodness
If you’re craving something light, healthy, and packed with flavor, this Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic is the answer. It’s everything you want in a quick seafood dinner: flaky fish, golden garlic, zesty lemon, and a kiss of olive oil. It’s also a weeknight wonder — ready in just about 20 minutes and pairs beautifully with just about any side.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional, for color & depth)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, stir together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika. It’ll smell bright and garlicky — the perfect coating for delicate white fish.
3. Prep the Cod
Place the cod fillets into the prepared dish. Spoon the marinade generously over each fillet, making sure every piece gets its share of that garlicky-lemon goodness.
4. Bake
Bake the cod for 12–15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. The exact time depends on how thick your fillets are — thinner pieces will cook faster.
5. Garnish & Serve
Once baked, top the cod with fresh parsley and a few lemon slices for a fresh pop. Serve warm and enjoy!
What to Serve with Baked Cod
- Mediterranean Rice Pilaf
- Garlicky Green Beans or Asparagus
- Lemon Herb Couscous
- Roasted Potatoes or a Simple Arugula Salad
Why You’ll Love It
- Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
- Bright and refreshing with a citrus-garlic punch
- Cooks fast and cleanup is a breeze
- Perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests
Quick Tips
- Want a crispy top? Broil the cod for the last 1-2 minutes.
- Swap in halibut or haddock if you prefer a different white fish.
- Double the garlic-lemon sauce and drizzle it over veggies or potatoes too!
This lemon-garlic baked cod is simplicity at its finest — no breading, no fuss, just bold flavor and perfectly flaky fish every time.
