Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Cooking Method: Baking, Roasting
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Courses: Dinner, Lunch
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 200  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

Flaky, tender, and infused with zesty lemon and rich butter, this Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a quick and healthy seafood dish perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Ready in just 30 minutes, this low-carb recipe pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or salad for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients
    For the Cod:
  • 4 fillets cod (about 170g each)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0 tsp 0.5 black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 0 tsp 0.5 paprika
  • 1 pinch chili flakes (optional for mild heat)
  • For Garnish:
  • 4 slices lemon (thinly sliced)
  • 1 tbsp parsley (chopped, fresh)
Instructions
    Preheat and Prep
  1. 1
    Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Season the Cod
  3. 2
    Pat cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Place the fillets evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
  5. 3
    In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, paprika, and chili flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
  6. Pour and Layer
  7. 4
    Spoon the lemon butter mixture generously over the cod fillets. Lay a thin lemon slice on top of each piece for added flavor and presentation.
  8. Bake
  9. 5
    Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 60°C.
  10. Rest and Garnish
  11. 6
    Let the fish rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to settle. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and serve warm.
Note

Fish Substitutes: You can replace cod with haddock, tilapia, or halibut.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Make it Dairy-Free: Swap butter with a good-quality olive oil or dairy-free butter alternative.

Pairing Ideas: Great with steamed broccoli, roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a light salad.

Keywords: quick, easy, healthy, fish dinner, baked cod
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/lemon-butter-baked-cod-recipe/