Description
Cod with Herb Lemon Marinade is a light and flavorful baked seafood dish made with tender cod fillets, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. The marinade enhances the natural taste of the fish while keeping it moist and flaky. This easy oven baked recipe is perfect for a simple dinner yet elegant enough to serve to guests.
Ingredients
One pound fresh cod fillets, preferably center cut
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Extra virgin olive oil
Fresh garlic cloves, crushed and finely minced
Fresh thyme leaves, lightly chopped
Sea salt, adjusted to taste
Freshly ground black pepper
Sweet Hungarian paprika
Instructions
Preheat the oven to four hundred degrees and lightly coat a glass baking dish with olive oil.
Rinse the cod fillets under cool water, then pat them completely dry with paper towels.
Arrange the cod fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Drizzle the lemon juice evenly over the fish, followed by the olive oil.
Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped thyme evenly across the fillets.
Season with sea salt, black pepper, and sweet Hungarian paprika, making sure the seasoning is well distributed.
Place the baking dish on the center rack of the oven and bake until the cod turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the dish from the oven and allow the fish to rest briefly before serving.
Spoon the natural pan juices over the cod before serving for added moisture and flavor.
Notes
Fresh cod produces the best texture and mild flavor, but fully thawed frozen cod works well if dried thoroughly.
Avoid overbaking, as cod can dry out quickly once fully cooked.
Fresh herbs provide the brightest flavor, especially thyme, which pairs naturally with lemon.
Letting the fish rest for a short time after baking helps the juices redistribute evenly.
The pan juices act as a light sauce and should always be spooned over the fish when serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American