Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets, about 6 oz (170 g) each
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3–4 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Make the garlic butter: Mix melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
- Coat the fish: Place the cod in the baking dish and spoon the garlic-butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
- Bake: Bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Check doneness: For food safety, the thickest part of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges. Spoon the flavorful lemon-butter juices over the fish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed broccoli
- White or brown rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh green salad
Nut & Allergen Information
- Peanuts: None
- Tree nuts: None
- Fish: Contains fish
- Dairy: Contains butter
- Eggs: None
- Shellfish: None
- Gluten: Naturally gluten-free, but check packaged ingredients if using seasoning or prepared products.
Approximate Nutrition per Serving
- Calories: 230–300
- Protein: 35–40 g
- Fat: 10–15 g
- Carbohydrates: Very low
Nutrition varies depending on the size of the cod fillets and amount of butter/oil used.
Q&A
Q: Can I use another fish?
Yes. Halibut, haddock, or another firm white fish can work well.
Q: How do I prevent the fish from becoming dry?
Avoid overcooking and check the internal temperature near the end of cooking.
Q: Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, but thaw it safely first and pat it dry before seasoning for better texture.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic-butter mixture ahead of time, but for the best texture, bake the fish just before serving.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 2–3 days.