Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is an ideal choice for a healthy and simple weeknight dinner. With its zesty lemon butter sauce complemented by juicy cherry tomatoes and briny olives, this dish not only delights the taste buds but also fits perfectly into various occasions—from casual family meals to elegant dinner parties. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a nutritious meal that is both flavorful and visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can have this delicious dish on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant sauce that enhances the cod’s natural taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe uses easily accessible ingredients, allowing you to customize it with seasonal vegetables or herbs.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish supports a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful cherry tomatoes and olives make this dish not only tasty but also beautiful to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Baking dish
• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking dish: Provides even heat distribution while baking the cod for perfectly cooked fish.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients quickly, allowing flavors to develop in the sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is the perfect healthy and easy weeknight dinner! Baked Cod in a lemon butter sauce with cherry tomatoes and olives, all ready in just 30 minutes!

For the Cod

• 1 pound cod fillets (about 3 fillets)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• ¼ cup dry white grape juice
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• ½ cup kalamata olives
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 sprigs thyme

How to Make Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400℉. This helps ensure that your cod cooks evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare and Bake Cod

1. Season the cod filets on both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Drizzle olive oil into a baking dish and lay the filets inside.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 12 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. While the fish cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then pour in white grape juice.
4. Allow the sauce to come to a boil; cook for 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Stir in cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and lemon juice.
2. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes or until tomatoes begin to pop.
3. Once simmered, add chopped parsley and thyme; mix well.

Step 5: Add Sauce to Cod and Bake Again

1. Remove foil from baking dish containing cod.
2. Pour sauce over cod filets evenly, spreading out tomatoes and olives around them.
3. Return the dish to the oven; cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful Lemon Butter Baked Cod!

How to Serve Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Serving Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its vibrant taste.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the cod for a touch of color and added freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing of citrus flavor.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Salad: Place the baked cod on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a refreshing contrast.
• Spinach: Serve the cod atop sautéed spinach for a rich and nutritious base.

Accompanied by Grains

• Quinoa: Pair with fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs for added texture and nutrition.
• Brown Rice: Serve alongside brown rice for a hearty meal that complements the dish’s flavors.

How to Perfect Lemon Butter Baked Cod

To achieve the best results when making Lemon Butter Baked Cod, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season both sides of the cod well. This enhances the flavor profile significantly.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for maximum flavor impact.
• Watch cooking time: Avoid overcooking the cod; it should be flaky yet moist after baking.
• Use quality butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness while still enjoying rich flavors.
• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the sauce for variety.
• Serve immediately: For the best taste, serve this dish right out of the oven while it’s hot.

Best Side Dishes for Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Pairing your Lemon Butter Baked Cod with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements fish beautifully.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Oven-roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds a crisp texture and vibrant color alongside the cod.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious and crunchy element to balance out the richness of the dish.
4. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with cucumbers and tomatoes offers refreshing flavors that pair well with baked cod.
5. Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb option serves as a great base while absorbing all the lovely juices from the cod.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices sprinkled with herbs bring additional depth and flavor to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Lemon Butter Baked Cod, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your cod properly can result in bland fish. Always season with salt and pepper on both sides before cooking.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality butter or old garlic can affect the flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Overcooking the cod: Cod can become dry if overcooked. Keep an eye on your baking time and check for flakiness to ensure it’s done without losing moisture.
• Neglecting the sauce: The sauce is crucial for flavor. Make sure to simmer it long enough for the tomatoes to pop and blend well with the other ingredients.
• Not allowing rest time: Letting the cod rest after baking enhances its flavor. Allow a few minutes before serving to let juices redistribute.

Refrigerator Storage

• Timeframe: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Lemon Butter Baked Cod

• Timeframe: Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal quality.
• Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Lemon Butter Baked Cod

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉ and bake covered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a delicious fish dish made with cod fillets baked in a flavorful lemon butter sauce with cherry tomatoes and olives.

How long does it take to make Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I use other fish instead of cod?

Yes! You can substitute cod with other white fish like tilapia or haddock while keeping the same cooking method and sauce.

What should I serve with Lemon Butter Baked Cod?

Pair this dish with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Baked Cod is not just simple; it’s also packed with vibrant flavors that make it an appealing choice for any dinner table. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables. Give it a try tonight!