In the fast-paced world of weeknight dinners, finding a recipe that is both quick and delicious can be a game-changer. Enter Lemon Pepper Baked Cod—a simple yet flavorful dish that promises to be on your table in under 15 minutes.
This recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you crave a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its zesty lemon pepper seasoning and tender, flaky fish, this cod is a true weeknight winner. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or lemon rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets or cod loins, approximately 8 ounces each
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemons (for garnish and juice)
Instructions :
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a crispier texture. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush them with olive oil.
- Season the Fish: In a small bowl or resealable bag, combine the lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 10 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork at its thickest part. For a perfectly cooked cod, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which can be checked with an instant-read thermometer.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the cod from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with lemon wedges or a spritz of lemon juice for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Wild-Caught vs. Farm-Raised: Whenever possible, opt for wild-caught cod. It tends to be more flavorful and is less prone to diseases compared to farm-raised cod.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: This recipe has a bit of a kick due to the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
- Avoid Overcooking: Overcooking cod can result in a dry and chewy texture. To prevent this, follow the general guideline of baking fish for 10 minutes per inch of thickness. Keep an eye on the fish and use a thermometer to ensure it reaches the optimal internal temperature.
- Enhance Flavor and Moisture: For added flavor, consider cooking the cod with lemon slices on top. This not only infuses the fish with a subtle citrus flavor but also keeps it moist.
- Alternative Fish: If cod is not available, you can substitute it with other fish such as salmon, haddock, pollack, grouper, or Mahi Mahi. Adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the fillets.
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 275°F (135°C) oven wrapped in aluminum foil for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid freezing baked fish as it may affect the texture.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 41g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 98mg
- Sodium: 414mg
- Potassium: 980mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Vitamin A: 530 IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 46mg
- Iron: 1mg
Conclusion :
Lemon Pepper Baked Cod is a quintessential weeknight meal that marries simplicity with flavor. With its zesty lemon pepper seasoning and the tender, flaky texture of cod, this dish is sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving it with roasted veggies or lemon rice, this recipe offers versatility and ease without sacrificing taste. Perfect for busy days, this Lemon Pepper Baked Cod proves that quick meals can be both healthy and delicious. Enjoy this delightful dish as a wholesome addition to your culinary repertoire!
Source of the picture : Small Town Woman
