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Crispy air fryer cod with creamy herb sauce served in a bowl with lemon.

Mediterranean Air Fryer Cod with Creamy Herb Sauce

This Mediterranean Air Fryer Cod is the ultimate solution for a healthy, high-protein dinner that doesn't skimp on flavor. By pairing flaky, spice-rubbed cod with a zesty, homemade creamy herb sauce, you get a restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a versatile staple for anyone following the Mediterranean diet or looking for a quick, low-carb seafood dish.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek, Middle Eastern
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

For the Cod:
  • 2 –4 cod fillets
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp pepper
  • lemon wedges.
For the Sauce:
  • ¾ cup mayo
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp zest
  • ¼ cup minced cornichons
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill
  • pinch of sugar/salt.

Method
 

  1. Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.
  2. Brush with olive oil and rub with the spice mixture.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Place fish in a single layer and air fry for 8-12 minutes until flaky.
  5. Whisk sauce ingredients together while fish cooks.
  6. Serve hot with a side of sauce and fresh lemon.

Notes

  • The "Pat Dry" Rule: Do not skip drying the fish. Any surface moisture will create steam, preventing that beautiful golden crust shown in the photo.
  • Sauce Variations: If you prefer a lighter base, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek Yogurt (note: this will no longer be Dairy-Free).
  • Internal Temp: Pull the fish at 140°F if you plan to let it rest for 2–3 minutes; the carry-over heat will bring it to the food-safe 145°F without drying it out.