Elevate your weeknight dinner with this Baked Cod with Garlic and Herb Crust recipe. This dish features tender, flaky cod topped with a golden crust bursting with the flavors of fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs. It’s simple enough for a quick meal yet elegant enough to impress guests. Healthy, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Low in fat and high in protein.
- Packed with Flavor: Fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon create a vibrant topping.
- Customizable: Swap herbs or breadcrumbs to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Herb Crust:
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes
How To Make Baked Cod with Garlic and Herb Crust
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prepare the Cod:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make the Herb Crust:
- In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parsley, dill (if using), minced garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parsley, dill (if using), minced garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Top the Cod:
- Spoon the herb mixture evenly over the cod fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
- Spoon the herb mixture evenly over the cod fillets, pressing gently to adhere.
- Bake:
- Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
- Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.
Pro Tips
- Extra Crispiness: For a crispier topping, broil the cod for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Check the fish at 12 minutes to avoid drying it out.
- Herb Variations: Use basil, thyme, or chives for a different flavor profile.
- Breadcrumb Swap: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
How To Serve
- Classic Pairing: Serve with roasted potatoes and a fresh green salad.
- Lighter Option: Pair with steamed asparagus or zucchini noodles.
- Beverage Match: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 14g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Adjustments: Use less olive oil or low-sodium breadcrumbs to reduce fat and sodium content.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispness.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the crust may lose its texture when thawed.
Conclusion
This Baked Cod with Garlic and Herb Crust recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seafood at its best. With its vibrant flavors and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Try it tonight and let us know how it turned out! Looking for more seafood inspiration? Check out our other quick and easy fish recipes.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use frozen cod? A: Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure the crust adheres properly.
Q: What other fish can I use? A: This recipe works well with haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free? A: Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
Q: How do I know when the fish is done? A: The cod is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Hi, I’m Emma Collins, a 24-year-old mom of two daughters and a little boy who keeps life full of energy. Cooking is my passion and my way of bringing my family together. Whether I’m experimenting with new recipes or perfecting old favorites, I love making meals that are simple, delicious, and full of love. As a busy mom, I’ve learned how to keep things quick and easy without sacrificing flavor. I’m excited to share my recipes and tips with you, hoping they inspire you to create memorable moments in your own kitchen with your loved ones.
