Are you ready to enjoy a dish that’s both flavorful and healthy? This Lemon Herb Baked Cod will impress your taste buds without weighing you down. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a meal that’s perfect for any night. Join me as I guide you through creating this delicious cod that shines with bright citrus and fresh herbs. Your dinner plans are about to get a whole lot better!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Zesty Flavor: The lemon and herbs create a bright and refreshing taste that perfectly complements the cod.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Cod is a lean source of protein, and paired with olive oil and herbs, it’s a heart-healthy meal option.
- Beautiful Presentation: Garnished with lemon slices and fresh parsley, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it great for entertaining.
Ingredients
Let’s dive into the ingredients for Lemon Herb Baked Cod. These items are simple yet full of flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish tasty and healthy.
- Cod fillets: You need four fillets, about 6 ounces each. Cod has a mild taste and a flaky texture, making it perfect for baking.
- Olive oil: Two tablespoons will help keep the fish moist and add a nice richness.
- Lemon juice and zest: Use the juice and zest of one lemon. This adds bright acidity and a fresh aroma.
- Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic will give your dish a savory kick. Garlic pairs well with fish.
- Dried herbs: You’ll need one teaspoon each of dried parsley, oregano, and thyme. These herbs bring warmth and depth to the cod.
- Salt and pepper: Use these to taste. They enhance all the flavors and bring the dish together.
- Garnishes: Lemon slices and fresh parsley make the dish look beautiful and add a pop of color.
Gather these ingredients to create a delightful Lemon Herb Baked Cod that will impress anyone at your table. Enjoy the process of cooking, and let the fresh flavors shine!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare your baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
Cooking Steps
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Brush the herb mixture generously over each fillet. Make sure they are well coated.
- Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done. Cooking time may vary based on fillet thickness.
- After baking, remove the cod from the oven. Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
Selecting fresh cod
When choosing cod, look for bright, clear eyes and shiny skin. Fresh cod should not smell fishy. Instead, it should have a clean ocean scent. Choose fillets that feel firm to the touch. This ensures the fish is fresh and ready for your dish.
Enhancing flavors with fresh herbs
Fresh herbs can make a big difference in flavor. If you have fresh parsley, oregano, or thyme, use them instead of dried ones. Chop them finely and mix them with the lemon juice and oil. This adds a vibrant taste and aroma to your baked cod.
Cooking Techniques
Importance of resting time
After baking, let the cod rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the fish retain its juices. Resting time means every bite will be moist and tender. It’s a simple step that can change your dish.
Ensuring even cooking
To ensure even cooking, make sure your cod fillets are of similar thickness. This helps them cook at the same rate. If some are thicker, they may need extra time. Keep an eye on them while they bake. The fish should flake easily when it’s done, and that’s your sign that it’s ready to serve!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of this dish. If available, substitute dried herbs with fresh ones for a more vibrant taste.
- Check for Doneness: Cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on the cooking time as it can vary based on the thickness of the fillets.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the cod in the herb mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before baking for a deeper flavor.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this cod with a light salad or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that complements the fish.

Variations
Flavor Additions
You can easily change the flavor of your Lemon Herb Baked Cod. Here are two fun ideas:
- Spicy lemon herb cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your herb mix. This gives a nice kick and warms up the dish. You can also use hot sauce in the olive oil blend for more heat.
- Mediterranean twist: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives. These ingredients bring a savory depth that pairs well with the herbs. You might even sprinkle some feta cheese on top before baking for a creamy touch.
Alternative Cooking Methods
You can cook cod in different ways if baking isn’t your thing:
- Grilling cod: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Brush the cod fillets with the same herb mixture. Place them on a greased grill pan or directly on the grill. Cook for about 4-6 minutes per side. Watch closely to avoid overcooking.
- Pan-searing options: Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cod fillets and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This method gives a nice crispy crust while keeping the inside moist.
Trying these variations and methods can make your dish unique and fun!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your Lemon Herb Baked Cod, you may have some leftovers. First, let the cod cool down to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container. Make sure to refrigerate it within two hours. This helps keep it fresh. The cod will last for up to three days in the fridge.
If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cod tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. This way, it can stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Suggestions
To enjoy your cod leftovers, reheating correctly is key. The best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps it moist and flavorful.
You can also use a microwave, but this method can dry it out. If using the microwave, place the cod on a microwave-safe plate. Add a splash of water and cover it. Heat it in short bursts, checking often to avoid overcooking. This way, you can savor the taste of your Lemon Herb Baked Cod again!
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking. Thawing helps the fish cook evenly. If you cook it from frozen, increase the baking time by a few minutes.
What to serve with Lemon Herb Baked Cod?
You can serve this dish with many sides. I recommend rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. These options balance the flavors and add nutrition to your meal.
How do I know when cod is fully cooked?
Check the cod with a fork. When it’s fully cooked, it should flake easily. The fish should also look opaque. If it is still clear, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Nutritional Information
Caloric content per serving
Each serving of Lemon Herb Baked Cod has about 250 calories. This makes it a light and healthy choice for dinner.
Health benefits of cod and herbs
Cod is low in fat and high in protein. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart. The herbs add flavor and have health benefits too. For example, parsley can help with digestion. Oregano and thyme are known for their antioxidant properties. Together, they make this dish both tasty and nutritious.
In this post, we explored how to prepare delicious Lemon Herb Baked Cod. We covered the needed ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Remember, using fresh cod and herbs boosts flavor. You can even try new cooking methods like grilling. Storing leftovers properly ensures you enjoy your dish later. If you have questions, refer to the FAQ section. This dish is simple and healthy, making it great for any meal. Enjoy your cookin

Lemon Herb Baked Cod
Ingredients
- 4 fillets cod
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon juice and zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- as needed lemon slices for garnish
- as needed fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well blended.
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish and brush the herb mixture generously over the top of each fillet. Make sure they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The exact time may vary slightly based on the thickness of the fillets.
- Once cooked, remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve the cod garnished with lemon slices and fresh parsley for an aromatic finish.

