Delightful Lemon Baked Cod Recipe for Healthy Eating
Are you looking for a wholesome yet flavorful meal that will transport your taste buds to Greece? Look no further than this Lemon Baked Cod recipe! As a home chef who loves throwing parties, I always look for recipes that are easy to make but also impress my guests. This recipe checks both those boxes and more. It’s packed with Mediterranean flavors, from the tangy lemon juice to the salty feta cheese. Plus, it’s healthy and perfect for those who follow a low-carb or gluten-free diet.
One of the best things about this baked cod recipe is that you don’t need any fancy cooking skills or tools. All you need is a sheet pan, some common kitchen ingredients, and an oven preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Within minutes, your entire kitchen will fill with the aroma of garlic, oregano, and lemon – it’s almost as if you’ve been transported to a Greek taverna!
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or are simply looking for a weeknight dinner option that is both flavorful and nourishing, this Lemon Baked Cod recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So break out your apron and get ready to impress your taste buds with this delicious Greek-style baked cod dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same old boring fish dishes? Look no further than this delectable lemon baked cod from Greece! This recipe is sure to impress not only your taste buds but also your dinner guests. Trust me, you’ll love it.
The tanginess of the lemon combined with the succulent cod fillets will make your taste buds dance with excitement. The Greek-style seasoning of oregano and garlic will perfectly complement the juicy tomatoes and feta cheese. This dish screams Mediterranean and will transport you to a seaside taverna in Greece.
Not to mention, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be enjoying a gourmet meal in the comfort of your own home in no time. So, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a tasty and healthy weekday dinner option, this lemon baked cod recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your meal rotation. Don’t wait any longer – grab those cod fillets and give this recipe a try!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Greek-style Lemon Baked Cod!
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs of cod fish fillets
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 5 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 lb of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 oz of crumbled feta cheese
- Lemon wedges for serving
Optional Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley leaves
- Potatoes, sliced and arranged on the bottom of the dish
You can easily find these ingredients in your grocery store or local seafood shop.
Next, let’s get started with the recipe instructions!
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get into the fun part – making the delicious Lemon Baked Cod from Greece dish! This recipe is full of classic Greek flavors and simple ingredients that are easy to find. Here, I will guide you through every step of the recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cod fish fillets (1.5 lb)
- Salt and pepper
- 5 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven
Before we start preparing the fish, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Prepare Garlic and Parsley
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, and melted butter.
Step 3: Season the Fillet
Next, season both sides of each fillet with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Pat Fish Dry
Pat both sides of each fillet dry with a paper towel.
Step 5: Pour Mixture on Fish
Place one fillet in a shallow bowl or baking dish facing upwards. Then pour half of the garlic-parsley mixture on top of it. Repeat with the second fillet and remaining mixture.
Step 6: Bake Fish
Bake the fish in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, depending on how thick your fillets are. You’ll know that it’s ready when the flesh is opaque and easily flakes apart.
Step 7: Dish up!
Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with extra parsley leaves and serve warm with lemon wedges.
There you have it! The perfect Lemon Baked Cod from Greece dish that can impress anyone. Follow these instructions to prepare a deliciously golden fish fillet coated in tangy lemon-garlic sauce that will take your taste buds on a Mediterranean culinary adventure.
Substitutions and Variations
A recipe is never set in stone. There’s always some room for creativity and experimentation, especially when it comes to variations and substitutions. The lemon baked cod from Greece is no exception. Here are some ideas that can take this delectable dish to a whole new level.
Firstly, you can play around with the herbs and seasoning. While oregano is a classic choice for Greek cuisine, you can also use other herbs that pair well with seafood, such as thyme, basil, dill, or cilantro. Lemon zest or lemon pepper can give the dish an extra citrusy kick. For a spicy twist, try red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Another way to switch things up is by changing the cheese. Instead of feta cheese, which has a tangy and salty taste, you can use soft and creamy cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese or cream cheese. Blue cheese or sharp cheddar can add more depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
If you’re not a huge fan of tomatoes, you can skip them altogether or replace them with other veggies that bake well in the oven. Zucchini, bell peppers, onions or mushrooms are great options that add color and texture to the dish. You can also toss in some olives or capers for an extra savory note.
For those who are on a low-carb diet or prefer gluten-free options, you can substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour or coconut flour for a nuttier taste and crunchier texture. Panko breadcrumbs can give the dish a Japanese twist while keeping it crispy.
Last but not least, you can modify the side dishes that go with the lemon baked cod. Instead of potatoes, which are traditional in Greece, you can serve it with rice pilaf, couscous or quinoa for a lighter alternative. A fresh green salad with cucumber and feta cheese complements the Mediterranean flavors of the fish perfectly.
Feel free to experiment with these substitutions and variations of the lemon baked cod recipe from Greece. Let your taste buds guide you as you explore new flavors and textures. Who knows? You might discover your own signature version of this classic dish!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have made this scrumptious Lemon Baked Cod, it’s time to enjoy it with the perfect pairing. The Greek style baked cod is a flavorful and aromatic dish that pairs perfectly with light and refreshing sides. The tangy lemon flavor of the dish meshes well with other Mediterranean flavors, so consider pairing it with a cucumber salad, tzatziki dip, roasted vegetables, or some garlic mashed potatoes.
If you’re in a rush and want something quick and easy, serve the cod over a bed of fluffy white rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. For something fancier, try adding some spinach and feta stuffed chicken or grilled shrimp skewers to the mix. Additionally, garnish your plate with a spritz of lemon juice, wedges of fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, or feta cheese crumbles to give your plate an extra layer of depth.
To elevate this meal further, you could also pair your baked cod with a crisp and light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines have the perfect balance between acidity and sweetness to complement the flavors in the dish. However, if you prefer something non-alcoholic, then some lemon iced tea or sparkling water with lime wedges would fit the bill nicely.
So go ahead and experiment with different sides and beverages until you find your perfect combination to complement your already delicious Lemon Baked Cod recipe!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
You may have some leftovers or want to prepare this lemon baked cod in advance for your party guests. No worries, because this dish can easily be made ahead, stored and reheated.
To store the baked cod, simply transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you need to reheat it, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the cod in a baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
For a quick reheating option, use your microwave. Place the cod on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Keep in mind that microwaving may cause the fish to dry out, so it’s best to add a splash of water or lemon juice before reheating to keep it moist.
When stored properly and reheated correctly, this Greek-style baked cod will taste just as delicious as when it was freshly made, impressing your guests once again with its tangy lemon garlic flavor and juicy texture.
Tips for Perfect Results
The key to a perfect Lemon Baked Cod lies in the details. Therefore, here are some tips to elevate your Greek style baked cod game.
Firstly, it is essential to dry the cod fillets properly before seasoning and baking them. Use paper towels or a clean dish towel to pat the fish dry. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy texture that detracts from the overall taste.
Secondly, don’t overcoat the fish with olive oil or melted butter. A thin layer of oil is enough to prevent the fish from sticking to the bottom of the baking dish without making it greasy. Remember that the lemon garlic flavor should shine through and not be overpowered by oil.
Thirdly, season well with salt and pepper, but go easy on the salt if you are using feta cheese in your recipe. Feta has a salty flavor, and therefore adding more salt may result in an overly salty dish.
Fourthly, make sure that you bake the cod at the correct temperature as per your recipe instructions, usually around 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. Cooking at too high or low temperatures can result in uneven or overcooked fish.
Lastly, monitor your cooking time carefully. Overcooking can make the fish dry, while undercooking can lead to a raw center. The rule of thumb for baked cod is about 20 minutes per 1.5 lbs of fish at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. However, keep a check after 15 minutes as various ovens have different heat settings.
By following these tips, you can achieve perfect results every time you prepare this delicious Mediterranean-style baked cod recipe!
FAQ
Now that you have all the information needed to make a delicious Lemon Baked Cod from Greece, it is time to address some of the most common questions related to the recipe. In this section, we will cover any doubts or concerns you may have before heading into the kitchen. From cooking times to substitution options, these FAQs will help you achieve perfect results every time you cook this flavorful dish. So, let’s get started and tackle any questions that may arise!
Why is my baked cod tough?
When fish is too tough to chew, it may be a result of overcooking. As the fish becomes more cooked, the texture becomes harder and each bite could lead to the fish becoming dry and chewy due to the evaporation of moisture that comes out of the fish. When it comes to fresh fish, it’s best to avoid adding too much extra flavor because its delicate taste is just as fragile as its texture.
How do you cook cod so it isn’t rubbery?
When it comes to cooking fish, creating a dish that’s both juicy and fork-tender can be quite challenging. Luckily, parchment baking is an excellent technique that produces satisfying results. Just take a piece of parchment paper and layer it with your preferred sauce, vegetables, and fish, wrap it tightly, and bake at 350°F. Depending on the thickness of the cut, your dish should be ready in around 15 to 30 minutes.
How long should you keep cod in the oven?
When cooking cod in the oven, the cooking time can vary depending on the temperature and thickness of the fish. If you are baking cod in a preheated 400 degree oven, it typically cooks in a speedy 10-12 minutes. For a 350 degree oven, the cooking time will take longer, usually around 25-30 minutes. Meanwhile, a 375 degree oven will take somewhere between 13 to 20 minutes. It’s important to check on your cod regularly while it cooks to ensure it is perfectly cooked without overdoing it.
How long to cook cod in the oven at 400?
When preparing cod, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for about 17-20 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can gauge its readiness by testing its flakiness. Unlike salmon, cod is relatively simple to cook, so don’t worry too much about getting it exactly right. Just keep an eye on it and make sure it’s cooked to perfection.
Bottom Line
Are you ready to impress your guests with a mouth-watering Greek-style baked cod recipe? This lemon garlic-flavored fish is sure to satisfy any seafood lover’s cravings. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also packs a flavorful punch, making it the centerpiece of any dinner party.
From the savory combination of olive oil and butter to the tangy zest of lemon wedges and juice, this recipe has it all. The aroma alone will have your guests salivating as they eagerly await your masterpiece in the oven.
And with versatile serving and pairing options, including juicy tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley leaves, you can personalize this dish to suit any taste buds.
So whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned pro looking for a new recipe to add to your collection, this Greek-style baked cod is an excellent choice. Give it a try tonight and be prepared for compliments from all who indulge in its divine flavors.
Lemon Baked Cod from Greece! Recipe
Ingredients
- olive oil
- 1/3 lb feta cheese
- 1 pinch oregano
- 3 -4 garlic cloves
- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 cod fish fillets
- salt
- pepper
- lemon wedge
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350*F.
- Grease a baking pan with some olive oil and place the fish fillets in it.
- In a bowl chop and crush the tomatoes, lemon juice and add a pinch of oregano, 4 tablespoons olive oil, and 3-4 crushed cloves of garlic. Mix everything together well.
- Pour some of the tomato mixture over each fillet and add some salt and pepper to taste.
- Crumble some feta cheese over each fillet and bake in oven for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Check the fish occasionaly to make sure it does not get overcooked and dry up.
- Serve with lemon wedges. Squeeze them over the fish and enjoy!
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!