Herb-Crusted Lemon Baked Cod: A Healthy Seafood Classic

Delight your taste buds with this Herb-Crusted Lemon Baked Cod, a dish that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with aromatic herbs for a light, flaky fish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 teaspoons fresh parsley)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Herb Crust:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish:

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley sprigs

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

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

Step 2: Season the Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel and place them in the prepared baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, parsley, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 3: Add the Herb Crust

1. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and olive oil.
2. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over the seasoned cod fillets, gently pressing it down to form a crust.

Step 4: Bake the Cod

1. Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
2. For an extra crispy crust, broil the fish for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

1. Garnish the cod with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon wedges for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Serve alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality cod fillets.
• If using frozen cod, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.
• Customize the herb crust by adding fresh dill or basil for a unique twist.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

• The herb crust adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to the tender cod.
• Lemon and Dijon mustard bring a zesty tang that complements the mild fish.
• This is a simple, healthy recipe that feels gourmet without the hassle.

Wine Pairing

Pair this Herb-Crusted Lemon Baked Cod with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing accompaniment.

With its crispy herb topping and vibrant lemon notes, this baked cod is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and savor a restaurant-quality dish made right in your kitchen!