Delicious Baked Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce for Quick Dinners Recipe
Introduction
Delicious baked cod with lemon dill sauce is a quick and flavorful dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender, flaky cod with a bright, herbaceous sauce that’s both refreshing and comforting.
Ingredients
- 4 fillets cod (fresh or fully thawed if frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (zest and juice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the cod cooks evenly and stays tender.
- Step 2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and arrange the cod fillets on it.
- Step 3: Drizzle the cod with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Step 4: In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey to make the lemon dill sauce.
- Step 5: Pour the sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each fillet is well-coated.
- Step 6: Bake the cod in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 7: Garnish with additional fresh dill before serving immediately.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute avocado oil for olive oil to add a different richness and flavor profile.
- Try parsley or tarragon in place of dill for a different herbaceous note.
- Use yellow mustard if you prefer a milder mustard taste instead of Dijon.
- For a vegan twist, swap honey with maple syrup or agave syrup.
- If fresh garlic isn’t available, garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative.
Storage
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. It’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod, but make sure it is completely thawed before baking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
What can I serve with baked cod and lemon dill sauce?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a light and balanced meal.
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Delicious Baked Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce for Quick Dinners Recipe
- Total Time: 22-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This delicious baked cod recipe features tender cod fillets coated in a bright and flavorful lemon dill sauce. Perfectly baked to flaky perfection, it makes an ideal quick and healthy dinner option packed with fresh herbs, citrus, and a touch of honey for balanced taste.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 fillets Cod (Choose fresh cod for best texture; if frozen, ensure fully thawed)
Seasoning and Oil
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (or substitute with avocado oil)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Lemon Dill Sauce
- 1 each Lemon (zest and juice, fresh recommended)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh dill (or substitute with parsley or tarragon)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard for a milder taste)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced, or garlic powder alternative)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup/agave for vegan alternative)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the cod cooks evenly and becomes tender and flaky.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the cod fillets neatly on the sheet.
- Season Cod: Drizzle the cod fillets with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
- Make Lemon Dill Sauce: In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey. Mix well until the sauce is vibrant and well combined.
- Coat Cod with Sauce: Pour the lemon dill sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with extra fresh dill, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Ensure the cod is fully thawed if using frozen for the best texture and even cooking.
- You can substitute fresh dill with parsley or tarragon if preferred.
- For a vegan twist on the sauce, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste and dietary needs.
- Monitor the baking time closely to avoid overcooking the fish, which can dry it out.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: baked cod, lemon dill sauce, quick dinner, healthy fish recipe, easy seafood dinner
