Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings fresh flavors to your dining table. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe combines tender cod fillets with a zesty lemon butter sauce, cherry tomatoes, and olives. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste, making it an ideal option for families and seafood lovers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon, butter, and garlic creates a rich sauce that elevates the cod’s natural flavor.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal is both nourishing and satisfying.
• Versatile Serve: Pair it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the cherry tomatoes and olives make for an eye-catching dish.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Lemon Butter Baked Cod, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking dish
• Skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking dish: Ideal for evenly cooking the cod while allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Skillet: Perfect for making the sauce quickly while retaining all the delicious juices from the garlic and other ingredients.

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 Fish

• 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 tablespoon 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 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 sprigs thyme

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400℉. This will ensure that your cod cooks evenly and quickly.

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 and lay the fillets inside.
3. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 12 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. While the fish cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for about 30 seconds.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then pour in dry white grape juice.
4. Allow the mixture to boil for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Vegetables to Sauce

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

Step 5: Combine Sauce with Cod

1. Remove foil from the fish after 12 minutes of baking.
2. Pour the sauce over the cod fillets in the baking dish.
3. Spread tomatoes and olives evenly around the fish.
4. Return dish to oven and cook for another 5 minutes.

Enjoy your flavorful Lemon Butter Baked Cod!

How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delightful dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the cod’s flavors.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing offer a classic pairing that balances the dish.

Rice or Quinoa

• Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lemon zest and fresh herbs enhances the citrus notes in the cod.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A protein-packed side made with quinoa, vegetables, and light seasoning adds texture and nutrition.

Vegetables

• Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned provide a fresh crunch that goes well with the fish.
• Roasted Broccoli: Caramelized broccoli tossed in olive oil and garlic adds depth to your plate.

Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the lemon butter sauce.
• Baguette Slices: Crispy baguette slices can serve as a base for topping with cod and sauce.

How to Perfect Lemon Butter Baked Cod

To achieve the best results when making Lemon Butter Baked Cod, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold seasoning: Make sure to season both sides of the cod fillets generously. The salt and pepper enhance the fish’s natural flavor.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and herbs for a brighter taste compared to dried alternatives.
• Watch cooking time: Avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on the fish; it should be opaque and flake easily when done.
• Sauce consistency: Allow the sauce to simmer until tomatoes burst for a thick, flavorful sauce that coats the fish beautifully.
• Opt for quality cod: Choose high-quality, sustainably sourced cod fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• Experiment with garnishes: Add extra herbs or even some capers right before serving for an added burst of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Pairing side dishes with your Lemon Butter Baked Cod can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting addition to this dish.
2. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach in olive oil provides vibrant color and nutrients alongside your fish.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Zoodles tossed in olive oil and garlic are a healthy alternative that complements the flavors of cod.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn served grilled or boiled adds a pop of sweetness that pairs nicely with lemon butter sauce.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances out the savory elements of this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Lemon Butter Baked Cod, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the cod can lead to bland flavors. Always season both sides with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Using too much heat: Cooking at excessively high temperatures can dry out the cod. Stick to moderate heat to ensure a moist and tender fish.
• Overcooking the fish: Cod cooks quickly, so be mindful of cooking time. Use a timer and check for doneness after 12 minutes to avoid dryness.
• Neglecting the sauce: Forgetting to simmer the sauce can result in underdeveloped flavors. Allow it to cook until the tomatoes pop for a richer taste.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Dried herbs or stale ingredients can diminish flavor. Opt for fresh parsley and thyme for the best outcome.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Butter Baked Cod in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Lemon Butter Baked Cod

• If you plan to freeze it, ensure it’s completely cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• Frozen cod should be consumed within 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Lemon Butter Baked Cod

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Place the cod in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, gently reheat the cod while covered, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delicious dish featuring tender cod fillets baked with a zesty lemon butter sauce, cherry tomatoes, and olives.

How long does it take to make Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I customize Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or asparagus, or adjust the herbs based on what you have available.

What side dishes pair well with Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

Consider serving it with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Is Lemon Butter Baked Cod healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is rich in protein and healthy fats while being low in carbohydrates, making it a nutritious choice.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. This versatile dish can be customized with different vegetables or herbs according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try for an impressive yet simple dinner!

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