Introduction

This delicious baked cod with lemon dill sauce is a perfect quick dinner that combines fresh, vibrant flavors with tender, flaky fish. Easy to prepare and full of brightness, it’s an ideal meal for busy weeknights.

Baked Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (fresh or fully thawed if frozen)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a different flavor)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons fresh dill (or parsley/tarragon as substitutes)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard for a milder taste)
2 cloves garlic, minced (or garlic powder as an alternative)
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup/agave for a vegan option)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the cod to tender perfection.
Step 2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cod fillets neatly on it.
Step 3: Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
Step 4: In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey to create the lemon dill sauce.
Step 5: Pour the lemon dill sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well coated.
Step 6: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Step 7: Garnish with extra fresh dill and serve immediately for a bright and flavorful meal.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the lemon dill sauce before baking.
Substitute fresh dill with parsley or tarragon if you prefer a different herbaceous note.
Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing sweetness.
To avoid overcooking, check the fish at 12 minutes and adjust baking time based on thickness.

Storage

Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a microwave on low power to maintain moisture and prevent the fish from drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cod can be used as long as it is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

What can I serve with baked cod and lemon dill sauce?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad to complement the bright flavors.

Baked Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 151 reviews

This Delicious Baked Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce is a quick and flavorful dinner option featuring tender, flaky cod fillets baked to perfection and topped with a bright, herbaceous lemon dill sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying.

Author: Kai
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

4 fillets Cod (Choose fresh cod for the best texture; if frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed.)
2 tablespoons Olive oil (Adds moisture and richness; substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.)
Salt, to taste (Enhances flavor; adjust to taste based on personal preference.)
Pepper, to taste (Enhances flavor; adjust to taste based on personal preference.)

Lemon Dill Sauce

1 each Lemon (zest and juice) (Provides acidity and brightness; fresh lemons are recommended for best flavor.)
2 tablespoons Fresh dill (Offers an herbaceous note and freshness; parsley or tarragon make good substitutes.)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (Contributes depth and a hint of spice; yellow mustard can be used for a milder taste.)
2 cloves Garlic, minced (Adds aromatic flavor; adjust according to preference, or use garlic powder as an alternative.)
1 tablespoon Honey (Introduces sweetness to balance acidity; maple syrup or agave can be used for a vegan alternative.)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the cod bakes evenly and achieves a tender, flaky texture.
Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, then arrange the fresh cod fillets neatly on the sheet.
Season Cod: Drizzle the cod fillets with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper, enhancing the natural flavor of the fish.
Make Lemon Dill Sauce: In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey to create a vibrant and flavorful sauce.
Coat the Fish: Pour the lemon dill sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Bake the Cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked cod with extra fresh dill and serve immediately for a fresh and delicious dinner.

Notes

For a vegan or plant-based alternative, substitute cod with firm tofu or cauliflower steaks and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lemon dill sauce.
Ensure the cod is fully thawed before baking to prevent uneven cooking.
Use fresh lemons for the best balance of acidity and brightness in the sauce.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.

Keywords: baked cod, lemon dill sauce, quick dinner, healthy fish recipe, easy seafood, cod fillets, baked fish, lemon garlic sauce