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Healthy Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Healthy Lemon Butter Baked Cod
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This Healthy Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dinner option perfect for any occasion. Featuring tender, flaky cod fillets baked with a bright lemon butter sauce enhanced by garlic and fresh parsley, it delivers a light yet satisfying meal. Ready in under 30 minutes and made from simple pantry staples, it’s an ideal choice for weeknights or special gatherings requiring easy preparation and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)

Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Seasoning & Garnish

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Optional Variations

  • Pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (for spice)
  • Fresh dill, thyme, or basil (as herb alternative)
  • Ghee or coconut oil (as butter substitute)
  • Thinly sliced cherry tomatoes or asparagus (for added vegetables)
  • Orange or lime juice (as citrus variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Cod: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure even baking and a tender texture.
  2. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, mix melted unsalted butter with freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine the bright, savory flavors.
  3. Assemble and Season: Lightly oil a baking dish with olive oil. Place the cod fillets in the dish and brush each generously with the lemon butter sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish tender and moist.
  5. Garnish and Serve: After baking, spoon any leftover sauce over the fillets for extra flavor. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired before serving.

Notes

  • Choose fresh, high-quality cod fillets for the best flavor and texture.
  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest rather than bottled for optimal brightness.
  • Check your fish at 12 minutes to prevent overbaking and drying out.
  • Brush lemon butter sauce on the fish both before and after baking for richer flavor and moisture.
  • Let the cod rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: healthy cod recipe, baked cod, lemon butter cod, easy fish dinner, gluten free fish dish, quick seafood recipe, light dinner

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/healthy-lemon-butter-baked-cod/