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Tender Garlic Butter Baked Cod Recipe Easy Perfect Roasted Lemon Fish

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A simple and quick baked cod recipe featuring tender, flaky fish infused with garlic butter and roasted lemon slices for a comforting yet elegant weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fillets (6 ounces / 170g each), fresh or thawed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large fresh lemon, sliced into rounds
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to heat for 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, mix melted unsalted butter with minced garlic, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined. The butter should be warm but not hot.
  3. Pat each cod fillet dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  4. Arrange the fillets in a baking dish and generously brush or drizzle the garlic butter mixture over each fillet.
  5. Place lemon slices over and around the cod fillets.
  6. Drizzle olive oil lightly over the baking dish and lemon slices to help with roasting and prevent sticking.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cod is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and remains tender and moist. Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately, spooning some of the buttery juices over the fish.

Notes

Pat the cod dry before seasoning to help create a better crust. Use fresh minced garlic for best flavor. Melt butter gently to avoid burning garlic. Keep an eye on lemon slices to prevent burning; they should be soft and caramelized. Avoid overbaking to keep fish tender and moist. Internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) is ideal for doneness. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked cod, garlic butter cod, roasted lemon fish, easy fish recipe, weeknight dinner, healthy seafood, quick baked fish

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