How to Prepare Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Looking for a tasty and simple fish recipe? Try Lemon Butter Baked Cod. It mixes lemon’s freshness with butter’s richness for a delicious taste. It’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. Plus, it’s easy to make, ready in just 22 minutes.

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is not just tasty but also flexible. You can change it up to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you love cod or want to try something new, this dish will be a hit. It’s packed with flavor and health benefits, making it a great choice for a nutritious meal.

Key Takeaways

• Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a simple and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
• This cod recipe combines the freshness of lemon with the richness of butter for a truly delicious experience.
• With a prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 12-15 minutes, Lemon Butter Baked Cod is an ideal choice for those seeking easy fish recipes.
• This dish is versatile and allows for various substitutions and variations to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
• Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a nutritious and delicious option for anyone looking for a healthy and flavorful meal.
• You can serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod with steamed vegetables, rice, or salad for a well-rounded meal.

Introduction to Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Lemon butter baked cod is a top pick for baked fish dishes. It’s a healthy and tasty choice for seafood dinner ideas. The mix of cod, lemon, and butter makes it a flavorful cod dish that wows everyone.

To make lemon butter baked cod, you bake cod fillets in a butter, lemon, and zest mix. This method adds flavor and keeps the cod moist and tender. So, you get a baked fish dish that’s juicy and full of taste.

This recipe is great for weeknight dinners because it’s easy and quick. It cooks in just 25 minutes, making it a fast and healthy seafood dinner idea. You can also add your favorite herbs and spices to make it even more special.

• High-protein content: Cod is an excellent source of protein, making it an ideal option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
• Low fat content: Cod is a low-fat fish, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Cod is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function.

In summary, lemon butter baked cod is a tasty and healthy baked fish dish for weeknight dinners. Its unique flavors and nutrients make it a great choice for seafood dinner ideas that are both delicious and nutritious.

Health Benefits of Cod

Cod is a nutritious and tasty choice for healthy seafood recipes. It’s low in fat but high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. A four-ounce serving has 93 calories, 20 grams of protein, and almost no fat. This makes it great for those who want a lean protein.

Some of the key health benefits of cod include:

• Reduced risk of coronary heart disease due to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids
• Improved brain function and reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline
• Support for thyroid function and metabolism regulation due to its high iodine content

When making baked cod fillets, it’s crucial to cook them well. They should reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This step helps avoid bacteria or parasites. Cod’s health benefits and versatility in cod recipe options make it a smart choice for a healthy diet.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for the Recipe

To make a tasty lemon butter baked cod, you’ll need some key ingredients. You’ll need fresh cod fillets, unsalted butter, lemons, garlic powder, and parsley. The quality of these ingredients greatly affects the taste and texture of your dish.

Choosing the right fish is important for easy fish recipes. For this recipe, use 1 lb. of thick-cut cod, cut into 4 pieces. You’ll also need 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 15 buttery round crackers, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.

The lemon butter sauce is crucial for seafood dinner ideas that are both tasty and moist. To make it, mix unsalted butter, lemon juice, and garlic powder. This sauce will be rich, tangy, and great for coating your cod fillets.

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• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 15 buttery round crackers
• 1 lb. thick cut cod
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

By using these ingredients and following the recipe, you can make a delicious lemon butter baked cod. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

To make a tasty Lemon Butter Baked Cod, just follow a few easy steps. It’s a great choice for those wanting healthy seafood recipes and is ready in under 30 minutes. Make sure to use fresh, high-quality cod for the best results.

First, heat your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, prepare the cod fillets. Rinse them, dry with a paper towel, and season with herbs and spices. Use salt, pepper, and lemon zest for extra flavor.

Preparing the Cod Fillets

After seasoning the cod, it’s time to make the lemon butter sauce. This sauce is what makes the dish special. Mix melted butter, lemon juice, and chopped parsley to create it.

Making the Lemon Butter Sauce

Now, bake the cod to perfection. Place the fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with the lemon butter sauce and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cod should reach 145°F. This recipe serves 4, with each serving having about 248 calories, 31g of protein, and 13g of fat.

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Baking the Cod to Perfection

Here’s a summary of the nutritional information per serving:

This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. It’s high in protein and low in calories, making it perfect for a guilt-free meal. Try this Lemon Butter Baked Cod for a flavorful and nutritious dish!

Tips for Flavor Enhancement

For delicious easy fish recipes like lemon butter baked cod, focus on the details. Adding fresh herbs can make your seafood dinner ideas pop. Try parsley, dill, or thyme for a fresh taste that pairs well with the lemon butter sauce.

One way to use these herbs is by sprinkling them on the cod before baking. You can also mix them into the lemon butter sauce for more flavor. Using different citrus fruits, like lime or orange, can also add a twist to your dish. This keeps your seafood dinner interesting.

Here are some suggestions for flavor enhancement:

• Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the cod fillets before baking
• Mix herbs into the lemon butter sauce for added depth of flavor
• Use different citrus fruits, such as lime or orange, to create a unique twist on the traditional lemon butter sauce

By using these tips, you can make your seafood dinner both delicious and memorable. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations. With a bit of creativity, your lemon butter baked cod can become an unforgettable meal.

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Serving Suggestions for Lemon Butter Baked Cod

There are many ways to serve lemon butter baked cod. It’s a perfect example of baked fish dishes that go well with various sides. Try it with steamed veggies, quinoa salad, or garlic mashed potatoes. These options add to the dish without taking over.

For a fancy touch, pair it with white wine. The wine’s crispness balances the dish’s richness. Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay are great choices. They make the healthy seafood recipes even more delightful.

Here are some more side dish ideas for lemon butter baked cod:

• Roasted asparagus with lemon and parmesan
• Grilled or sautéed spinach with garlic and cherry tomatoes
• Couscous salad with roasted veggies and citrus vinaigrette

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Pairing the lemon butter baked cod with these sides and wines makes for a fantastic meal. It highlights the best of healthy seafood recipes. So, be creative and enjoy your flavorful cod dishes!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Butter Baked Cod, it’s key to know common mistakes. Overcooking the cod makes it dry and less tasty. To fix this, check the cod’s doneness often. Remove it from the oven when it hits 145°F.

Don’t skip important steps in making the dish. Not drying the cod fillets before baking can make the outside less crispy. By following the recipe and preparing the cod right, you’ll get a tasty seafood dinner.

Other mistakes to dodge with easy fish recipes like Lemon Butter Baked Cod include:

• Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, such as fresh cod and real butter
• Not adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the cod fillets
• Not letting the cod rest for a few minutes before serving, which can help retain moisture and flavor

Knowing these mistakes and preparing the cod well can make a delicious baked cod dish. It will impress your family and friends.

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Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing and reheating leftovers of your baked cod fillets is key. It keeps the dish’s flavor and texture right. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for a month.

To reheat your cod, use the oven or microwave. For the oven, set it to 275 degrees F and heat for 15-20 minutes. In the microwave, reheat in 30-second bursts until it’s warm. This way, you can enjoy your healthy seafood recipes again without losing taste or quality.

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• Store leftovers in airtight containers to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the cod.
• Label and date the containers so you can easily keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
• Reheat the cod to an internal temperature of 145 degrees F to ensure food safety.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your baked cod fillets and other healthy seafood recipes for a longer period. This way, you keep their flavor and nutritional value intact.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Lemon Butter Baked Cod

The Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe is a true delight. It’s simple, flavorful, and healthy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and nutritious seafood option that everyone will love.

The tender cod and zesty lemon butter sauce make a mouthwatering meal. It’s easy to prepare and bakes quickly. You’ll have this delicious seafood dinner idea ready in no time.

Exploring easy fish recipes is fun. Feel free to try different variations of this Lemon Butter Baked Cod. Add fresh herbs, use different fish, or serve it with your favorite sides. The possibilities are endless, and the key is to have fun and make it your own.