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Baked Lemon-Garlic Cod with Butter Sauce

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Baked lemon-garlic cod with butter sauce is a fresh and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender, flaky cod fillets baked with lemon and garlic, then topped with a rich, silky butter sauce. It’s a quick and elegant meal perfect for weeknights or special dinners.

Ingredients

  • 4 fresh cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • For the butter sauce:
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons white wine or chicken broth (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika if using.
  3. Place the seasoned fillets in the baking dish and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  4. While the cod bakes, prepare the butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  5. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in lemon juice and wine or broth, and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  6. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
  7. Once the cod is done, spoon the warm butter sauce over the fillets.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use thawed frozen cod if fresh isn’t available—just pat it dry well.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or sliced zucchini to the baking dish for extra veggies.
  • Swap in haddock, halibut, or tilapia if preferred.
  • Dairy-free butter or olive oil works as a substitute for the butter sauce.
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes or Dijon mustard can add a flavor boost to the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/baked-lemon-garlic-cod-with-butter-sauce/