Baked Cod Dish With Lemon And Garlic

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cod
1. **Preheat the oven**: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat.

2. **Prepare the baking dish**: Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent the fish from sticking. A 9×9-inch or similar-sized dish works well for this recipe.

3. **Prepare the cod fillets**: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This will help the fish cook more evenly and absorb the seasoning better. Season the fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.

#### Step 2: Make the Lemon-Garlic Mixture
4. **Prepare the garlic and lemon**: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice. Stir to combine. If you’re adding butter, melt it and incorporate it into the mixture for extra richness and flavor.

5. **Season the cod**: Drizzle the garlic and lemon mixture evenly over the cod fillets. Be sure to coat each fillet with the aromatic oil mixture, and allow it to soak in for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.

6. **Add lemon slices**: Arrange the lemon slices on top of the cod fillets. This will not only add flavor but also create a beautiful presentation.

7. **Sprinkle with thyme**: Sprinkle the dried thyme (or fresh thyme, if using) evenly over the fillets. If you like, you can also add a few extra herbs like oregano or dill for a different twist.

#### Step 3: Bake the Cod
8. **Bake the cod**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets, so check the fish after 12 minutes to avoid overcooking. Cod is a delicate fish, and it’s best when cooked just until it’s tender and moist.

9. **Optional step – broil**: If you like a slightly crispy, golden top, you can switch the oven to broil during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just be sure to watch the fish carefully to prevent burning.

#### Step 4: Serve
10. **Garnish and serve**: Once the cod is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with additional lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.

### Serving Suggestions

This **Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic** can be served with a variety of sides to make it a complete meal:

– **Roasted vegetables**: Try pairing it with roasted potatoes, carrots, or asparagus for a colorful and nutritious side.
– **Rice or quinoa**: Serve the cod over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious garlic and lemon juices.
– **Greens**: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, dressed with a simple vinaigrette, complements the fish perfectly.
– **Garlic bread**: For a more indulgent touch, serve the cod with a slice of garlic bread or crusty baguette to dip into the flavorful juices.

### Tips for Perfect Baked Cod

– **Don’t overcook the cod**: Cod cooks quickly and can become dry if overcooked. To check if it’s done, gently use a fork to flake the fish. It should easily break apart and be opaque throughout.
– **Fresh or frozen cod**: Fresh cod works best for this recipe, but you can also use frozen cod. If using frozen, be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
– **Use fresh lemon**: While bottled lemon juice is convenient, fresh lemon juice adds a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the dish.
– **Herb variations**: While thyme is classic for this recipe, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, parsley, dill, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.

### Why You’ll Love Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic

**Baked Cod with Lemon and Garlic** is a dish that highlights the beauty of fresh, simple ingredients. The delicate flavor of the cod is complemented perfectly by the tangy, aromatic lemon and garlic, creating a light yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking to eat healthier, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner, or simply want a meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

This dish is not only healthy but also full of flavor and light enough to enjoy year-round. With minimal prep time, it’s a great option for a busy weeknight or a special dinner with guests. The balance of fresh lemon, garlic, and thyme will make this baked cod dish a memorable and delicious meal that everyone will love.