Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic – A Light & Flavorful Weeknight Winner

Looking for a healthy, fast, and foolproof dinner? This Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic recipe is the definition of simple elegance. Tender, flaky white fish gets a bright lift from zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and a touch of olive oil. It’s a no-fuss, one-dish wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, dinner parties, or anytime you want a nourishing, flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each) – fresh or thawed frozen
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and subtle spice)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon slices, for serving

Tip: You can substitute cod with other mild white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together:

Olive oil
Minced garlic
Lemon zest
Lemon juice
Salt, pepper, and paprika

Whisk until well combined. This vibrant, citrusy blend is what brings the cod to life.

Step 3: Season the Fish

Lay the cod fillets evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Spoon the marinade over each piece, making sure the tops are well-coated.
Let the cod marinate for 5–10 minutes if you have time—this enhances flavor!

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Thicker fillets may need an extra minute or two.

Pro Tip: For a lightly golden top, broil the fish for the last 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove the cod from the oven and garnish with:

Fresh chopped parsley
Lemon slices for an extra citrus burst

Serve hot with your favorite sides (see ideas below).

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories (approx.): 230 per serving

Perfect Side Dishes

Pair your baked cod with any of these tasty sides:

Steamed green beans or asparagus
Garlic roasted potatoes
Rice pilaf or quinoa
A crisp side salad with vinaigrette
Crusty bread for dipping in the lemony juices

Variations & Tips

Add herbs like dill or thyme to the marinade for an herby twist.
Spice it up with a pinch of crushed red pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
Butter swap: Use melted butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.
Make it Mediterranean: Add sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, or capers to the pan before baking.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days.
Reheat: Gently warm in the oven at 300°F or microwave in 30-second intervals to avoid drying out.
Freezer: Cooked cod can be frozen, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy