Ah, baked cod portions! There’s something truly magical about them. I remember the first time I made this lemon herb recipe; the aroma wafted through my kitchen, and it felt like sunshine was dancing on my plate. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both elegant and comforting. The freshness of the lemon herb seasoning really shines through, brightening the tender, flaky cod. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious seafood dinner that’s perfect for weeknights or impressing guests. Trust me, once you try these baked cod portions, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients for Baked Cod Portions (Lemon Herb)
To make these delightful baked cod portions, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon (freshly squeezed juice)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How to Prepare Baked Cod Portions (Lemon Herb)
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven roaring! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because a hot oven will help the cod cook evenly and develop that lovely flaky texture we all adore. Trust me, the smell of lemon herb wafting through your kitchen is worth the wait!
Prepare the Seasoning
Now, grab a small bowl and let’s whip up our seasoning mix. Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and squeeze the juice of 1 fresh lemon right in there—oh, that zesty aroma is divine! Next, add 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and dried parsley, along with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix it all together until it’s beautifully combined. This seasoning is going to bring your cod to life!
Apply the Seasoning to Cod
Time to dress our cod! Place the 4 cod fillets in a baking dish—make sure they’re snug but not crowded. Now, take that fragrant seasoning mix and pour it evenly over the fillets. I can’t stress this enough: make sure each piece of fish is well-coated! This way, every bite will burst with flavor.
Bake the Cod
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let the cod bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork—just like magic! The fish should be opaque and tender. Serve it up hot, and get ready for some deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes!
- Fresh Flavors: The combination of lemon and herbs brings a bright, zesty taste that elevates the mild flavor of cod.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Versatility: This baked cod goes wonderfully with a variety of sides, from steamed veggies to fluffy rice, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Impressive yet Simple: You’ll feel like a gourmet chef serving this elegant dish, even though it’s incredibly easy to make!
Tips for Success with Baked Cod Portions (Lemon Herb)
To ensure your baked cod portions turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, try to use fresh herbs whenever possible; they truly enhance the flavor of the dish. If you only have dried herbs, that’s okay too, but fresh brings a brightness that’s hard to beat!
Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Love garlic? Add a bit more garlic powder! Want a kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish beautifully.
Lastly, make sure you keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is a little different, so check the cod a minute or two early. You want it to flake easily with a fork, but be careful not to overcook it, or it can become dry. With these tips, you’ll be a baked cod pro in no time!
Nutritional Information for Baked Cod Portions (Lemon Herb)
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of these delicious baked cod portions:
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this healthy seafood dish guilt-free!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got those scrumptious baked cod portions ready to go, let’s talk sides! I love serving them with a generous helping of steamed vegetables—think bright green broccoli or colorful carrots, which not only add nutrition but also bring a lovely pop of color to your plate.
Fluffy rice is another great option; it soaks up the lemon herb juices beautifully! If you want something a bit lighter, a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully. You really can’t go wrong with these options—they complement the cod perfectly and make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal!
FAQ about Baked Cod Portions (Lemon Herb)
Here are some common questions I get about these delightful baked cod portions!
Can I use a different type of fish? Absolutely! While cod is a fantastic choice for this lemon herb recipe, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like haddock or tilapia. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers? If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), let the cod cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook it!
Can I freeze baked cod portions? Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the cooled cod portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
What can I add to the seasoning mix? Feel free to get creative! Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can add a unique twist. You can also try adding a splash of white wine to the seasoning for an extra layer of flavor. Just remember to keep the balance—too much can overpower the delicate cod!
Baked Cod Portions (Lemon Herb)
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Cod
- 4 filets cod fillets fresh or thawed
For the Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the seasoning mixture over them.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.