Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards creating a memorable meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
For those who prefer a bit of variation, you can substitute the cod with another white fish like haddock or halibut. If you’re out of fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch, though fresh is always best.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the process of bringing this dish to life. Remember, cooking is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Sprinkle the paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the fillets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This is a trick I learned from my travels — always trust your senses for the best results!
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International