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This baked cod recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant dinner with minimal effort. The fish emerges perfectly tender and flaky, enrobed in a bright lemon butter sauce infused with fresh garlic. Despite taking just minutes to prepare, it consistently impresses guests who assume hours of kitchen work went into creating such a flavorful dish.
This dish has become a family favorite, converting even skeptical fish eaters with its delicate flavor and perfect texture. The natural sweetness of the cod pairs beautifully with the rich garlic butter sauce, while the lemon adds just the right amount of brightness.
Essential Ingredients
- Cod fillets: Select thick, white pieces with firm texture. Fresh is optimal, but properly thawed frozen fillets work well when patted dry.
- Unsalted butter: Forms the base of the luxurious sauce while allowing seasoning control.
- Fresh garlic: Provides aromatic depth and creates delicious caramelized bits during cooking.
- Lemon: Both zest and juice contribute essential bright notes and balance.
- Fresh parsley: Adds color and herbal freshness. Dill or chives make good alternatives.
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Cooking Method
- Fish preparation:
- Thoroughly dry fillets before cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors.
- Butter sauce technique:
- Cook garlic in butter just until fragrant, about 90 seconds, avoiding browning. The aroma will signal when it's ready.
- Citrus incorporation:
- Zest lemon first, then juice. Add juice carefully to hot butter mixture to prevent splashing.
- Cooking time:
- Check fish at 10 minutes. It should just begin to flake while remaining moist inside.
- Final touches:
- Generously spoon pan sauce over fish when serving. The sauce carries tremendous flavor.
- Resting period:
- Allow brief rest for optimal texture and moisture distribution.
This recipe originated during a coastal vacation after a successful fishing expedition. Working with limited rental kitchen supplies - just butter, garlic, and lemon - produced such exceptional results that it became a cherished tradition for first-night vacation dinners.
Accompaniments
Serve alongside roasted asparagus or quick-roasted cherry tomatoes. The dish pairs wonderfully with buttered orzo, which soaks up the flavorful sauce. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the delicate fish perfectly.
Variations
Enhance with capers for Mediterranean flair, add Parmesan for a crispy topping, or incorporate red pepper flakes for gentle heat. Fresh chilies served alongside offer a customizable spice option.
Storage and Prep
Best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers keep for two days refrigerated. Reheat gently at 275°F to maintain moisture. The garlic butter mixture can be prepared ahead and brought to room temperature before using.
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This timeless combination of flaky cod, rich butter sauce, and bright citrus creates an effortless yet impressive dish. Ready in just 20 minutes, it strikes the perfect balance between weeknight practicality and special occasion elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is frozen fish okay to use for this recipe?
- Sure, just make sure it’s fully defrosted and carefully dried with paper towels to avoid excess water.
- → Can I try using a different fish?
- Of course! Haddock, tilapia, pollock, or any other mild white fish would taste great here.
- → How do I check if the cod is baked all the way?
- The fish is done when the flesh is opaque and flakes apart easily with a fork. Thicker cuts might need an extra 2-3 minutes.
- → Could this dish be made ahead of time?
- It’s best when fresh, but you can prep the lemon-garlic butter in advance and warm it up gently before baking.
- → What sides go well with this recipe?
- A fresh green salad, roasted asparagus, fluffy rice pilaf, or steam-cooked broccoli are great pairing options.