This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod is a light yet flavorful seafood dish featuring tender, flaky cod fillets baked in a zesty garlic butter sauce. Fresh lemon slices add brightness, while paprika lends a warm, subtle smokiness.
This recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners or special occasions, combining simple ingredients like cod fillets, lemon, garlic, and butter to create a healthy and delicious meal.
Simple and Elegant Baked Cod Recipe
Lemon Garlic Butter Cod is a delightful seafood dish that brings together the freshness of cod fillets with the rich flavors of garlic butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy weeknight dinners that don’t compromise on taste or nutrition.
The combination of tender, flaky cod, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic creates a dish that is both satisfying and healthy. With just a few simple ingredients like cod fillets, lemon, garlic, and butter, you can whip up a meal that impresses family and friends alike.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Sauce
The heart of this dish lies in the garlic butter sauce, which infuses the cod with rich flavor. To create this sauce, melt butter and mix in minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be poured over the cod fillets, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of paprika for an extra layer of warmth and subtle smokiness. This simple step elevates the dish, making it a standout option among baked cod recipes.
Arranging the Cod Fillets
When preparing your Lemon Garlic Butter Cod, the arrangement of the cod fillets is key. Place the fillets in a baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking. This method allows the garlic butter sauce to envelop each piece, resulting in perfectly baked cod.
Top the fillets with fresh lemon slices, which not only add a burst of flavor but also enhance the visual appeal of the dish. The bright yellow of the lemon contrasts beautifully against the white plate.
Baking to Perfection
Once your cod is arranged and topped, it’s time to bake. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the baking dish inside. The cod should bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until it becomes flaky and opaque.
This quick cooking time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The result is a tender, flaky fish that is both satisfying and healthy, making it a great addition to your seafood dishes repertoire.
Garnishing and Serving
After baking, the final touch is garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
Serve your Lemon Garlic Butter Cod alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal that is both inviting and nutritious. This dish is sure to become a favorite, whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Garlic Butter Cod recipe serves four and is packed with nutrients. Each serving contains approximately 220 calories, making it a healthy fish option for those mindful of their diet.
With 24 grams of protein and only 2 grams of carbohydrates, this dish is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet while enjoying delicious flavors. Pair it with a side of whole grains or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Simple and Elegant Baked Cod Recipe
This Garlic Butter Cod is a quick and easy dish that can be prepared in the oven. The cod fillets are arranged in a baking dish, topped with a flavorful garlic butter mixture, and baked until flaky. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish is a delightful addition to your seafood repertoire.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the cod fillets in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the garlic butter mixture over the cod fillets, then top with lemon slices and sprinkle paprika on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is flaky and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 2g