Imagine the scent of sizzling garlic hitting a hot pan, followed by the bright, zesty aroma of fresh lemon. As you pull the skillet from the oven, you’re greeted by golden-edged cod fillets resting in a pool of shimmering lemon butter sauce. This Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a 25-minute ticket to the shores of Greece.
If you are looking for Easy Mediterranean Recipes, this flaky, protein-packed dish is a perfect starting point. By searing the fish first and finishing it in the oven, we lock in moisture while creating a delicate crust that holds onto every drop of sauce.
Quick Tip: Bake cod at 400°F for 10–12 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 140–145°F.
Why This Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe Works
This recipe is a staple for anyone following the Mediterranean Diet because it balances bold flavor with heart-healthy fats.
- Quick Weeknight Meal: From prep to table in under 30 minutes.
- Mediterranean Pantry Ingredients: Uses staples like extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and fresh parsley.
- The Sear Factor: Unlike many easy baked cod recipes, we sear the fish first. This adds a golden texture that prevents the fish from tasting “boiled.”
- High Protein, Low Calorie: A lighter, sophisticated alternative to heavy fried fish.
Looking for a different flavor profile? Try our Greek Baked Cod Recipe featuring a robust tomato and olive sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cod
- Cod Fillets: Choose thick, wild-caught fillets. Ensure they are patted dry with paper towels; moisture is the enemy of a good sear!
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: To build the base layer of seasoning.
Lemon Garlic Sauce
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Avoid the bottled stuff; the acidity of fresh lemon is vital.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The backbone of Mediterranean cooking.
- Unsalted Butter: We use a small amount to create a silky emulsion with the lemon.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced finely to infuse the oil.
- Fresh Parsley: For a burst of color and earthiness.
Seasoned Dredging Mix
- All-Purpose Flour: Just enough to create a light “skin” on the fish.
- Spices: Paprika (for color), Coriander, and Cumin.
Tip: Mediterranean spices like cumin and coriander add an earthy depth that complements the sweetness of white fish, elevating a simple lemon garlic cod in oven dish to restaurant quality.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Baked Cod (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat Oven to 400°F
Heating your oven to 400°F ensures the fish cooks quickly without drying out. This high heat is the secret to a tender, flaky center.
Step 2: Prepare Lemon Garlic Sauce
Whisk together your lemon juice, melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Set aside so the flavors can meld.
Step 3: Pat the Cod Dry
Use a paper towel to remove every bit of surface moisture. This “texture science” allows the flour to adhere properly and ensures the fish sears rather than steams.
Step 4: Dredge for a Light Crust
Whisk your flour and spices. Lightly coat each fillet, shaking off any excess. You want a whisper of flour, not a heavy batter.
Step 5: Sear for 2 Minutes Per Side
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the cod until a golden crust forms. This “Maillard reaction” creates a depth of flavor you can’t get from baking alone.
Step 6: Finish in the Oven
Pour the lemon garlic sauce over the fish and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake cod at 400 degrees for 8–12 minutes, depending on the thickness.
Pro Tip: Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 140–145°F.
How Long to Bake Cod at 400°F?
Timing is everything when it comes to baked cod with lemon butter sauce. Use this guide for perfect results:
- 1-inch thick fillets: 8–10 minutes.
- 1.5-inch thick fillets: 12–15 minutes.
- Frozen (thawed) fillets: Stick to the 10–12 minute range.
How to Tell When Cod Is Done
You don’t need to be a chef to know when your fish is ready. Look for these signs:
- Color: The meat should change from translucent to a solid, opaque white.
- The Fork Test: Gently twist a fork in the thickest part; it should separate into large flakes easily.
- Thermometer: Aim for 140°F; the carry-over heat while resting will bring it to the FDA-recommended 145°F.
Can You Use Frozen Cod?
Yes! Frozen cod is often “fresher” than the fish counter if you live inland.
- Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight.
- Pat dry thoroughly to remove excess ice crystals.
- Proceed with the recipe as normal, perhaps adding 1 minute to the oven time.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Cod
- Use Fresh Garlic: Jarred garlic has a bitter aftertaste that ruins the delicate lemon garlic baked cod.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give the fillets space in the pan so they sear evenly.
- Quality Oil: Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best Mediterranean flavor.
What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Baked Cod
Complete your meal with these authentic sides:
- Grains: Serve over a Greek Quinoa Salad Recipe or fluffy couscous.
- Vegetables: Try Roasted Broccoli or a crisp Fattoush Salad.
- Classic Pairing: Our Greek Potato Salad Recipe is a natural partner for lemon-based fish.
Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Pat cod fillets dry. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix flour and spices. Dredge fish lightly.
- Heat oil in an oven-proof skillet. Sear fish 2 mins per side until golden.
- Whisk lemon juice, melted butter, and garlic. Pour over fish.
- Transfer skillet to oven. Bake 8–12 mins until fish reaches 145°F.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- The Skillet: For best results, use a cast-iron or heavy stainless steel oven-safe skillet. This allows you to move directly from the stove to the oven without losing heat.
- The Fish: If cod is unavailable, you can substitute with Halibut or Haddock, though cooking times may vary slightly based on thickness.
- The Sauce: If the sauce reduces too much in the oven, splash in a tablespoon of warm water or white wine before serving to loosen it back into a silky glaze.
- Safety: Always check the thickest part of the fillet with an instant-read thermometer. Pull the fish at 140°F, as carry-over cooking will bring it to the food-safe 145°F while it rests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should cod be baked at?
400°F (200°C) is the “sweet spot” for roasting white fish quickly while maintaining moisture.
How do you keep cod from drying out?
The combination of a quick sear and the lemon butter sauce acts as a moisture barrier. Don’t skip the sauce!
Should cod be covered while baking? No. Leaving it uncovered allows the crust to stay crisp while the internal temperature rises.
Pro Chef Secret for Extra Flavor
Before serving, grate fresh lemon zest over the hot fish. The heat releases the citrus oils, providing a fragrance that lemon juice alone cannot achieve. Finish with a drizzle of your best olive oil and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Lemon Garlic Baked Cod Recipe is the ultimate “low effort, high reward” dinner. It’s healthy, impressive enough for guests, and simple enough for a Tuesday night.
Ready to expand your skills? Try our Greek Gyro Meat Recipe next for a weekend feast!