Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

If you’re looking for a light, flavorful dinner that feels both refreshing and indulgent, this Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a must-try. Tender, flaky cod is baked to perfection and smothered in a velvety coconut cream sauce with bright lemon zest, fresh herbs, and subtle spices. It’s a beautiful blend of tropical and citrus flavors that’s perfect for weeknights or elegant dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Light Yet Creamy – Rich coconut cream balanced by zesty lemon.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Healthy & Nourishing – Packed with lean protein and good fats.
Naturally Dairy-Free – Thanks to coconut milk, it’s perfect for dairy-free diets.
Elegant Enough for Guests – A beautiful presentation with gourmet flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Baked Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each), fresh or thawed
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat for richness)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (adds depth)
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

For Garnish & Serving:

• Lemon slices or wedges
• Fresh herbs
• Steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking dish
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Zester or grater

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Season the Cod

1. Pat cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
2. Rub both sides with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
3. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.

Step 3: Bake the Cod

1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
2. While the fish bakes, prepare the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and shallot, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Stir in coconut milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
4. Simmer for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. If desired, stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Remove from heat and stir in chopped herbs.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

1. Once the cod is done baking, spoon the warm coconut lemon cream sauce over each fillet.
2. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
3. Serve immediately with steamed rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Baked Cod
Use Fresh Cod – For best flavor and texture, choose fresh or properly thawed fillets.
Don’t Overcook – Cod is done when it flakes easily; overbaking makes it dry.
Choose Full-Fat Coconut Milk – For the richest, creamiest sauce.
Balance the Flavors – Taste and adjust lemon, salt, and herbs to your preference.
Add a Kick – Want some heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or minced chili to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions
With Coconut Rice – Amplifies the tropical notes of the sauce.
Over Quinoa – A nutritious grain that pairs well with creamy sauces.
With Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli – A vibrant, healthy side.
On a Bed of Greens – Turn it into a warm, elegant salad.
With Garlic Naan – Great for mopping up extra sauce.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooked fish and sauce separately for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of coconut milk.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, covered, to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another fish?
Yes! Try halibut, tilapia, or salmon for a delicious variation.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make and refrigerate it up to 3 days ahead. Warm gently before serving.

3. Is coconut milk the same as coconut cream?
No. Use canned coconut milk, not cream of coconut (which is sweetened). Full-fat coconut milk is ideal here.

4. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes! Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas to the sauce for extra color and nutrition.

5. Is this dish spicy?
Not as written, but you can add red pepper flakes or diced chili if you like heat.

Final Thoughts
Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is the perfect blend of light, zesty, and creamy. With bold flavor from coconut and lemon, and a beautifully tender fish, it’s an easy dinner that feels like a gourmet escape. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress dinner guests, this dish is sure to make waves.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how your dish turns out.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Fusion – Tropical/Modern American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 360 | Protein: 32g | Carbohydrates: 5g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 280mg

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