The first time I made Baked Cod with Lemon & Herbs, I couldn’t believe how simple it was to put together and how fresh and flavorful it turned out. The cod came out perfectly flaky, tender, and juicy, infused with bright lemon and the aromatic notes of garlic, parsley, and thyme. It’s one of those dishes that feels light and elegant, yet it takes barely 20 minutes from start to finish.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it as a healthy weeknight dinner with roasted vegetables or dress it up with a glass of wine and crusty bread for something more sophisticated. The lemon and herbs lift the mild flavor of the cod beautifully, making it a dish that even picky eaters enjoy. It’s proof that healthy, wholesome cooking doesn’t need to be complicated.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Cod with Lemon & Herbs is light, fresh, and incredibly easy to make. Cod has a naturally mild flavor, which makes it a great canvas for lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs. Baking ensures the fish stays moist and flaky, while the simple seasoning makes it approachable for both seafood lovers and those new to cooking fish.
It’s also a healthy choice, packed with lean protein, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, it’s versatile—serve with rice, potatoes, or vegetables for a balanced meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish looks beautiful and tastes even better.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each, fresh or thawed if frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon (half juiced, half sliced into rounds)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Extra lemon wedges
- Fresh dill or chives
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
Pro Tips
- Pat fish dry before seasoning to help flavors stick and ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overbake—cod cooks quickly and is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Use parchment paper or lightly oil the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Fresh herbs make a big difference in flavor—parsley, thyme, or dill are great choices.
- Add lemon slices on top while baking to infuse extra citrus flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking dish or sheet pan
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl for mixing herbs and oil
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
- Fish swaps: Use haddock, halibut, tilapia, or sea bass in place of cod.
- Citrus variation: Try lime or orange instead of lemon for a different flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or paprika.
- Garlic butter version: Swap olive oil for melted butter.
- Mediterranean style: Add cherry tomatoes and olives to the baking dish.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep herb mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate.
- Season and arrange cod in the baking dish up to 2 hours before baking, then cover and chill.
- Leftovers can be repurposed into fish tacos or added to a salad.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon & Herbs
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare Cod
Pat cod fillets dry. Place in the baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Rub fillets with garlic, sprinkle with parsley and thyme, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add Lemon
Squeeze half a lemon over the fish and lay lemon slices on top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until cod flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pair with garlic mashed potatoes or rice pilaf.
- Add a crisp side salad with vinaigrette for a lighter meal.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or enjoy cold in salads. Avoid freezing once baked, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Benefits
Cod is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories, and rich in vitamins like B12 and selenium. The olive oil and herbs provide heart-healthy fats and antioxidants, while lemon adds vitamin C and brightness. This dish is light yet satisfying, making it a great option for a wholesome dinner.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.
2. How do I know when cod is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free if made with olive oil.
4. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Yes—zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus cook beautifully alongside cod.
5. What’s the best herb pairing with cod?
Parsley, thyme, dill, or chives all complement cod’s mild flavor.
6. Can I make this recipe ahead?
You can prep and season the fish ahead, but bake just before serving for best texture.
7. Can I grill the cod instead?
Yes, grill on medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
Light, Fresh, and Flavorful
This Baked Cod with Lemon & Herbs is fresh, light, and bursting with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you can make on a busy weeknight yet also serve proudly for guests. With just a handful of ingredients and under 20 minutes in the oven, it’s a dish that proves simple cooking can be both healthy and delicious.