I love Mediterranean cod with lemon herb sauce and green beans because it’s light, fresh, and full of bright flavor. I enjoy how the tender cod pairs with a zesty, herb-forward sauce and crisp green beans, creating a meal that feels both healthy and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s simple to prepare while still tasting elegant. I enjoy how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. I also appreciate how the lemon and herbs enhance the fish without overpowering it, keeping everything balanced and fresh.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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cod fillets
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olive oil
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garlic
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lemon juice
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lemon zest
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fresh parsley
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fresh dill or oregano
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salt
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black pepper
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green beans
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optional red pepper flakes
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). I trim the green beans and toss them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet.
I place the cod fillets on the same sheet pan or a separate one, drizzle them with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. I bake everything until the cod is opaque and flakes easily and the green beans are tender and lightly roasted.
While everything cooks, I make the lemon herb sauce by mixing olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and dill or oregano. I add red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.
I spoon the lemon herb sauce over the warm cod just before serving and serve it alongside the green beans.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time takes around 10 minutes, cooking time is about 15 minutes, and the total time comes to roughly 25 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add cherry tomatoes or olives to the green beans for extra Mediterranean flavor. I like using butter instead of some of the olive oil for a richer sauce. When I want a heartier meal, I serve this with roasted potatoes or rice.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm everything gently to avoid drying out the fish. I add a fresh squeeze of lemon before serving to brighten the flavors again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod?
I can use frozen cod as long as I thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
How do I know when cod is fully cooked?
I know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque throughout.
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
I pan-sear the cod in a skillet if I don’t want to use the oven, then steam or sauté the green beans separately.
What herbs work best for the sauce?
I like parsley and dill most, but oregano or thyme also work well.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
I find it works well for short-term meal prep, especially when stored and reheated gently.
Conclusion
I enjoy Mediterranean cod with lemon herb sauce and green beans because it’s fresh, flavorful, and easy to make. I love how it delivers bright, clean flavors in a simple way, making it a recipe I turn to whenever I want a light yet satisfying meal.
Mediterranean Cod with Lemon Herb Sauce and Green Beans
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A light and fresh Mediterranean-style cod dish served with a bright lemon herb sauce and tender roasted green beans for a healthy, satisfying meal.
- Author: Lizaa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb cod fillets
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill or oregano, chopped
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss green beans with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and black pepper and spread on a baking sheet.
- Place cod fillets on the same or a separate baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Season the cod with salt and black pepper.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cod is opaque and flakes easily and the green beans are tender.
- In a bowl, mix remaining olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, dill or oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Spoon the lemon herb sauce over the cod just before serving.
- Serve the cod alongside the roasted green beans.
Notes
- Pat cod dry before cooking for best texture.
- Add cherry tomatoes or olives for extra Mediterranean flavor.
- Finish with an extra squeeze of lemon before serving.
- Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with green beans
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
