Description

This simple and flavorful baked cod recipe features tender cod fillets roasted with fresh lemon, garlic, thyme, and cherry tomatoes. The fish is seasoned with kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, then baked until flaky and juicy. Finished with fresh parsley and a bright lemon wedge, this dish is perfect for a healthy and elegant weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

4 cod fillets, about 1 inch thick
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Aromatics and Vegetables

1 lemon, sliced, plus wedges for serving
2 garlic cloves, smashed, unpeeled
2 thyme sprigs
1 cup cherry tomatoes

Other Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Arrange a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking of the fish and vegetables.
Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels, then season all sides evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
Assemble Baking Dish: In a 13″ x 9″ baking dish, combine lemon slices, smashed unpeeled garlic cloves, thyme sprigs, cherry tomatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss gently to coat all ingredients and spread them out in an even layer.
Nestle the Cod: Place the seasoned cod fillets into the baking dish among the lemon and tomato mixture, ensuring they are well nestled to absorb the aromatic flavors while baking.
Bake the Dish: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the baked cod with finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve the fillets with lemon wedges alongside and spoon the flavorful pan sauce over the top for an added burst of citrus and savory goodness.

Notes

Adjust baking time depending on fillet thickness; thicker pieces may require a few extra minutes.
For added richness, drizzle a bit more olive oil over the cod before baking.
Use fresh herbs like thyme and parsley for optimal flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or crusty bread to complete the meal.
Ensure cod is fresh for the best texture and taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked cod, cod recipe, healthy fish dinner, lemon baked fish, easy seafood recipes, roasted cod, one-pan fish recipe