Introduction

This baked cod recipe features a bright and flavorful lemon dill sauce that makes for a quick and satisfying dinner. Tender, flaky cod fillets are enhanced with a perfect balance of fresh herbs, citrus, and a touch of honey. It’s an easy dish that feels both fresh and comforting.

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)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons fresh dill (or parsley/tarragon)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
2 cloves garlic, minced (or garlic powder)
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup/agave for vegan)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the cod bakes evenly and stays tender.
Step 2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cod fillets on it.
Step 3: Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey to make the sauce.
Step 5: Spoon the lemon dill sauce evenly over the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Garnish with additional fresh dill and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor; bottled lemon juice can dull the taste.
Try substituting dill with fresh parsley or tarragon if you prefer a different herb profile.
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
If you want a crispier top, broil the cod for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Storage

Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be used chilled in salads the next day.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure the cod is fully thawed and patted dry before baking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What can I serve with baked cod?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

Baked Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce Recipe

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4.4 from 90 reviews

This Delicious Baked Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce is a quick and healthy dinner option that combines tender, flaky cod fillets with a bright and flavorful lemon dill sauce. The recipe is easy to prepare, featuring fresh ingredients like lemon, dill, garlic, and honey, baked to perfection for a satisfying meal any night of the week.

Author: Zane
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
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

4 fillets Cod (fresh or fully thawed if frozen)

Seasoning & Oil

2 tablespoons Olive oil (or avocado oil as substitute)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Lemon Dill Sauce

1 each Lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons Fresh dill (or parsley/tarragon as substitute)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (yellow mustard as milder alternative)
2 cloves Garlic (minced, or garlic powder as alternative)
1 tablespoon Honey (maple syrup or agave for vegan alternative)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the cod cooks evenly and becomes tender and flaky.
Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Arrange the cod fillets neatly on the baking sheet.
Season Cod: Drizzle the cod fillets with olive oil, then season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
Make Lemon Dill Sauce: In a bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, fresh dill, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and honey. Mix thoroughly to create a vibrant, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce.
Coat Cod: Pour the lemon dill sauce evenly over the seasoned cod fillets, making sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked cod with extra fresh dill and serve immediately while hot for the best taste and texture.

Notes

Ensure cod fillets are fully thawed if using frozen to guarantee even cooking.
You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
Honey can be replaced with maple syrup or agave to make the dish vegan-friendly.
For a milder mustard flavor, yellow mustard can be used instead of Dijon.
If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder works as an alternative but adjust quantity to taste.
Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the cod fillets.

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