Description
Succulent Mediterranean-style Cod Delight brings ocean-fresh flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Crisp herbed breadcrumbs and zesty lemon perfectly complement this simple, elegant seafood classic you can master in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Proteins:
- 4 cod fillets (about 1.5 pounds / 680 grams)
Seasonings and Spices:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking and Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Warm the culinary workspace by heating the oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Create a welcoming surface for the cod by layering a baking sheet with parchment paper or applying a delicate coating of cooking spray.
- Craft a vibrant flavor profile by whisking together olive oil, aromatic garlic, smoky paprika, verdant parsley, pungent onion powder, mineral salt, and ground pepper. Elevate the mixture with bright lemon zest and a splash of citrus juice.
- Meticulously dry the cod fillets using absorbent paper towels, ensuring a pristine surface for seasoning. Carefully arrange the fillets in a single, elegant layer across the prepared baking surface.
- Generously brush the prepared seasoning mixture across each fillet, ensuring complete and even coverage that promises a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Slide the adorned fish into the preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 12-15 minutes. Monitor the cod’s metamorphosis, watching for a translucent appearance and the ability to gently separate with a fork.
- Verify the fish has reached its culinary peak by confirming an internal temperature of 145F (63C), guaranteeing both safety and optimal texture.
- Extract the perfectly cooked fillets from the oven, adding a final flourish of fresh lemon juice. Scatter vibrant parsley across the top and present with additional lemon wedges for a citrusy complement.
Notes
- Ensure cod fillets are completely dry before seasoning to achieve a crispy, golden exterior and prevent steaming.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill or thyme to customize the flavor profile and match personal taste preferences.
- For a gluten-free and low-carb option, this recipe naturally fits dietary restrictions without modifications.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a brighter, more vibrant citrus flavor that enhances the delicate fish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg