Description

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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Ingredients

Scale

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

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Season the Cod

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

Step 3: Bake the Cod

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

Step 4: Make the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

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

Step 5: Combine & Serve

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

Notes

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.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Fusion – Tropical/Modern American