Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this recipe features tender cod fillets baked in a luscious lemon butter sauce infused with cherry tomatoes and olives. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a nutritious and satisfying meal that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a delicious sauce that elevates the cod.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal fits well into any balanced diet.
• Versatile: Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits various tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier, gather a few essential kitchen tools. These tools will help you prepare the Lemon Butter Baked Cod efficiently.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking dish
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking dish: An essential tool for evenly cooking the cod and allowing the flavors to meld.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing ingredients and creating the flavorful sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is the perfect healthy and easy weeknight dinner! Baked Cod in a lemon butter sauce with cherry tomatoes and olives, all ready in just 30 minutes!

For the Cod

• 1 pound cod fillets (about 3 fillets)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• ¼ cup dry white grape juice
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• ½ cup kalamata olives
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 sprigs thyme

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400℉. This ensures that the cod cooks evenly while maintaining its moisture.

Step 2: Prepare and Bake Cod

1. Season the cod fillets on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Drizzle olive oil in a baking dish.
3. Lay the seasoned fillets in the dish and cover them with aluminum foil.
4. Bake for 12 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in dry white grape juice and allow it to come to a boil; cook for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

1. Stir in cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and lemon juice.
2. Let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes until tomatoes start popping.
3. Add chopped parsley and thyme; mix well.

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Cod

1. Remove the foil from the fish after baking time is up.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the fish evenly distributing tomatoes and olives around fillets.
3. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes of cooking time.

Enjoy your delicious Lemon Butter Baked Cod!

How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Serving Lemon Butter Baked Cod can elevate your dining experience with fresh flavors and a vibrant presentation. Here are some delightful ways to serve this dish that will impress your family or guests.

With a Fresh Green Salad

• A light salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the cod beautifully.

On a Bed of Quinoa

• Serving the cod on cooked quinoa not only adds texture but also boosts the nutritional profile of your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Pairing the dish with crusty bread allows you to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing the cod with extra parsley or thyme adds freshness and enhances its visual appeal.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Lightly steamed asparagus or broccoli makes for a healthy side that balances out the meal.

Served Over Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs and spices provides a hearty base that complements the baked cod perfectly.

How to Perfect Lemon Butter Baked Cod

To ensure your Lemon Butter Baked Cod turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Cod: Opt for fresh cod fillets whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Skip Seasoning: Generously season both sides of the cod with salt and pepper before baking for optimal taste.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your fish; overcooking can lead to dryness. Aim for moist, flaky fish.
• Adjust Sauce Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the garlic or red pepper flakes based on your spice preference for a personalized touch.
• Use Quality Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances flavor and helps in achieving a golden-brown finish on your cod.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers into your sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Pairing side dishes with Lemon Butter Baked Cod can enhance its flavors while creating a balanced meal. Here are some excellent suggestions:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that contrasts nicely with the fish.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add crunch and depth, making them an excellent accompaniment.
3. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers provides a light yet satisfying option.
4. Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with fresh herbs is an ideal companion to soak up all those delicious lemon butter juices.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic offers nutrients and bright color to your plate.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil are perfect for those looking for healthier alternatives.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Butter Baked Cod, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the cod: Cod can become dry if overcooked. Always keep an eye on the cooking time and use a timer for accuracy.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the fish properly can result in bland flavors. Don’t skip the salt and pepper; they enhance the dish significantly.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking cod in a non-preheated oven can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the fish inside.
• Ignoring sauce simmering time: If you don’t let the sauce simmer long enough, the flavors won’t meld well. Allow at least 5-10 minutes for the best taste.
• Using old ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield better flavors. Always check that your tomatoes, olives, and herbs are fresh before starting.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3 days for best quality.

Freezing Lemon Butter Baked Cod

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Seal tightly to avoid freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lemon Butter Baked Cod

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the cod for about 10-15 minutes to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid dryness.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a simple and healthy dish featuring cod fillets baked in a rich lemon butter sauce with tomatoes and olives.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can substitute cod with other firm white fish like haddock or tilapia for a similar texture and flavor profile.

How do I know when the cod is cooked?

Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

What can I serve with Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is not only quick and delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs for added flavor. Try this recipe tonight for an easy weeknight dinner!

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