Baked Cod Lemon Butter

Discovering this baked cod with lemon butter sauce felt like stumbling upon a treasured secret in my kitchen; its simple elegance and bright flavors quickly made it a staple for both quick dinners and special moments.

I remember the first time unexpected guests showed up and this dish came together effortlessly, earning compliments and requests to share the recipe that same evening.

Ingredients

• Cod fillets: I always choose skinless and boneless for clean, flaky bites and quick baking.
• Olive oil: Brushing it lightly keeps the fish moist and adds a subtle richness.
• Salt and pepper: Freshly ground pepper and the right amount of salt are simple but essential flavor boosters.
• Unsalted butter: For the sauce, unsalted controls the salt perfectly to balance the lemon's brightness.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest: Freshness here is key; bottled lemon just doesn’t cut it in this sauce.
• Garlic: Minced garlic sautéed just until fragrant adds a wonderful depth without overpowering.
• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and an herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish.
• Lemon wedges: For garnish and an extra squeeze of brightness at the table.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly grease a baking dish that fits the cod fillets snugly in one layer.

Season the Cod:

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then brush both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly, letting the simple seasoning shine.

Bake the Fish:

Arrange fillets in the baking dish and slide them into the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork; that gentle cooking releases a subtle, ocean-fresh aroma.

Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:

While the fish bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Then stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper, removing the pan from heat before folding in chopped parsley so it stays vibrantly green.

Serve It Up:

Transfer the baked cod fillets to plates and spoon the warm, velvety lemon butter sauce generously over each piece. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and extra parsley if you like, giving it that inviting finishing touch.

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This dish has a way of turning ordinary weeknights into cozy celebrations, making any gathering feel special with minimal effort and maximal heart.

Keeping It Fresh

Using the freshest lemon juice and zest really brightens this sauce, so I always keep fresh lemons handy and zest just before cooking to preserve those zingy oils.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This cod pairs beautifully with lightly steamed asparagus or a simple green salad; sometimes, I add roasted baby potatoes to keep everyone happily full without overshadowing the delicate flavors.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once when I was short on time but wanted to impress, this baked cod was a lifesaver; it came together quickly, looked stunning, and everyone loved it.

• Don't forget to warm your plates before serving to keep the fish cozy longer
• If you need extra tang, a quick squeeze of lemon over the plated fish refreshes the whole dish
• Leftovers are great the next day, just reheat gently to maintain moisture

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Thanks for spending this time in the kitchen with me; I hope this baked cod brings a little brightness and comfort to your table as it has to mine.

Common Questions

→ What is the best way to ensure cod stays moist when baking?

Patting the cod dry and brushing it with olive oil before seasoning helps retain moisture, while baking at 200°C for 12–15 minutes cooks it evenly without drying out.

→ How is the lemon butter sauce prepared?

Butter is gently melted with minced garlic, then combined with fresh lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper. Finely chopped parsley is added off-heat to keep its freshness.

→ Can other fish be used instead of cod?

Yes, similar white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut can be substituted while maintaining the light, flaky texture suited for this preparation.

→ What side dishes complement this baked cod?

Steamed vegetables, rice, or roasted potatoes pair nicely by providing a mild, hearty base that balances the bright lemon butter notes.

→ Are there any optional flavor enhancements?

Adding a sprinkle of paprika or a splash of white wine to the lemon butter sauce can introduce subtle depth and complexity.