Lemon Dill Baked Cod Flavorful and Simple Dish

Are you ready to impress your taste buds with a dish that's both flavorful and simple? My Lemon Dill Baked Cod is a delightful recipe that combines fresh ingredients and easy steps. You’ll discover how to make a light lemon dill sauce, achieve perfectly flaky cod, and pair it with the right sides. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this dish will become a favorite on your dinner table!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make Lemon Dill Baked Cod, you will need the following items:

- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

- Zest of 1 lemon

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- Lemon slices, for garnish

- Optional: Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish

Fresh ingredients like lemon juice and dill give a bright taste. You can use dried dill if you don't have fresh. Fresh garlic offers a stronger flavor than powdered garlic.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Lemon Dill Baked Cod has about 250 calories. It contains:

- Protein: 30 grams

- Fat: 12 grams

- Carbohydrates: 4 grams

This dish is low in carbs, making it great for many diets.

Cod is a good source of lean protein. It helps build and repair muscles. Lemon adds vitamin C, which boosts your immune system. Dill is full of antioxidants that support health. Enjoying this dish can help you feel good and energized.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Dish

First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This heat helps the cod cook evenly. Lining your baking dish with parchment paper makes cleanup easy. If you don't have parchment, lightly grease the dish. This step keeps the fish from sticking and ensures a nice finish.

Mixing the Lemon Dill Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and the zest of one lemon. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill. Whisk these together until smooth. This sauce brings bright flavors to the cod. Adjust the lemon juice if you want more tang. Taste it as you mix. Finding the right balance of flavors is key.

Baking the Cod

Place the cod fillets in the prepared dish. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Pour the lemon-dill sauce over the fish. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. To check for doneness, use a fork. The fish should flake easily. The internal temperature must reach 145°F (63°C). After baking, let the cod rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it moist and flavorful. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfectly Flaky Cod

To achieve tender, flaky cod, focus on cooking time and temperature. Bake at 400°F (200°C). This high heat cooks the fish quickly, keeping it moist. Check for doneness after 15 minutes. The cod should flake easily when you test it with a fork. If it resists, give it a few more minutes. Remember, overcooking makes fish dry and tough.

Enhancing Flavor

You can switch up the flavors in this dish easily. Try adding herbs like parsley or chives. For a spicy kick, a dash of red pepper flakes works great. If you want a zestier taste, increase the lemon juice or add capers. You can also use lime instead of lemon for a fresh twist. Experiment until you find your favorite mix.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your baked cod with fresh sides. Light salads with greens and tomatoes complement the dish well. Roasted veggies or steamed asparagus also work nicely. For a heartier side, serve it with quinoa or rice. These options soak up the delicious lemon-dill sauce and round out your meal perfectly. Enjoy!

Variations

Gluten-Free Adaptations

You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Use fresh herbs instead of any spice mixes. Ensure your olive oil is pure and free from additives. Fresh lemon juice is naturally gluten-free. Check all labels if you use pre-packaged items. This dish is already gluten-free thanks to the simple ingredients.

Cooking Methods

You can grill or bake this cod. Baking is easy and hands-off. Just set your oven and wait. Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor. It takes less time. Heat your grill to medium-high. Cook the cod for about 5-7 minutes per side. Both methods keep the cod moist and full of taste.

Adding Vegetables

Make this a one-pan meal by adding veggies. Slice zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. Lay them around the cod in the baking dish. Toss with olive oil and seasoning for extra flavor. This adds color and nutrients to your dish. Plus, it saves you from washing more pans!

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

To keep your Lemon Dill Baked Cod fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This simple step helps keep the fish safe to eat. Enjoy your leftovers within three days for the best taste and quality.

Freezing Tips

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each cod fillet tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw the cod overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, Lemon Dill Baked Cod lasts about three days. If you freeze it, it can stay good for up to three months. Just remember, the sooner you eat it, the better the flavor will be. Always check for any off smells before cooking leftovers.

FAQs

What can I substitute for cod?

You can use other fish if you don't have cod. Here are some great options:

- Haddock

- Halibut

- Tilapia

- Pollock

These fish have a mild flavor. They also bake nicely, just like cod. Each option will give you a tasty meal.

How do I know when the cod is done?

To check if your cod is done, look for these signs:

- The fish should be opaque.

- It should easily flake with a fork.

- The internal temperature must reach 145°F (63°C).

If you see all these signs, your cod is perfect. It means the fish is cooked well and ready to eat.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep this dish ahead of time. Here are some tips:

- Marinate the cod in the lemon-dill sauce. You can do this a few hours before cooking.

- Store the marinated fish covered in the fridge. This helps it stay fresh.

- Just bake it when you are ready to eat.

Prepping in advance saves time. It also lets the flavors mix better.

In this post, we covered all you need for a great cod dish. We started with ingredient details, including fresh options and nutritional info. Then, I shared step-by-step instructions for preparing and baking the cod. I offered tips for achieving flaky texture and suggested some tasty variations. Lastly, we discussed storage methods to keep leftovers fresh.

Cooking can be fun and rewarding. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own!