Description

A quick and healthy weeknight dinner featuring golden-brown cod fillets baked with lemon, butter, and fresh herbs. This simple recipe delivers bold flavor while remaining low-carb and high in protein.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds cod fillets (fresh or thawed frozen)
2 large fresh lemons (one for juice, one for slices)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Olive oil or butter spray for greasing pan

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease.
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure browning and remove any pin bones.
Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper.
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest.
Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet and spoon the butter-herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and place thin lemon slices on each fillet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Let rest for 2 minutes before serving immediately with pan juices.

Notes

Ensure cod is patted very dry before seasoning to prevent the butter from sliding off. Do not overcrowd the pan; give each fillet space to bake properly. Fish continues to cook slightly after removal from the oven, so remove when just opaque. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
Calories: 250
Sugar: 1
Sodium: 300
Fat: 12
Saturated Fat: 6
Carbohydrates: 2
Protein: 35

Keywords: baked cod, lemon fish, healthy dinner, quick seafood, gluten-free, low-carb, weeknight meals, easy fish recipe