Lemon Pepper Baked Cod

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Introduction:

Experience the bright and zesty flavors of Lemon Pepper Baked Cod with our easy-to-follow recipe. Bursting with tangy lemon, aromatic black pepper, and tender cod fillets, this dish is a delightful addition to any seafood lover’s repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy dinner option or simply craving the taste of the sea, our Lemon Pepper Baked Cod is sure to satisfy your palate. Join us as we guide you through the simple steps to create this delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cod fillets or cod loins about 8 ounces each
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon pepper
  • 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemons for garnish and juice

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Cover a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
  2. Pat the cod fish very dry with paper towels. Place the fish fillets on the baking sheet and brush them with olive oil.
  3. Combine the lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl or zipper bag. Sprinkle evenly over the filets.
  4. Bake for 10 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork at its thickest point.
  5. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.  Serve with fresh lemon wedges or spritz with fresh lemon juice.

Notes:

  1. If at all possible, buy wild-caught cod.  They are not as susceptible to disease and illness as farm-raised cod.
  2. This flavor-packed cod is on the slightly spicy side.  If your taste buds are sensitive, cut back on the Cajun seasoning a little bit.
  3. It is important not to overcook fish as it can become dry and chewy.  A general rule of thumb is 10 minutes per inch of thickness. Cod is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees. This can easily be checked with an instant-read thermometer.
  4. For added flavor and moisture, cook with lemon slices and serve with lemon wedges.
  5. Other fish substitutes for this recipe include salmon, haddock, pollack, grouper, and Mahi Mahi.
  6. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Baked fish is best enjoyed promptly; however, you can reheat the baked fish in a 275-degree oven wrapped in an aluminum foil tent for about 10 minutes or until warm. I do not recommend freezing baked fish.

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve Hot: Lemon Pepper Baked Cod is best served hot and fresh from the oven to preserve its tender texture and vibrant flavors. Serve immediately for the best taste and experience.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish the baked cod with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a burst of color and added freshness. The herbs complement the zesty lemon and black pepper flavors beautifully.
  3. Accompaniments: Pair Lemon Pepper Baked Cod with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the dish and provide a well-rounded meal.
  4. Squeeze Fresh Lemon: Just before serving, provide lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the cod. The extra burst of citrus adds brightness to the dish and enhances the lemony flavor.
  5. Presentation: For an elegant presentation, serve the Lemon Pepper Baked Cod on individual plates or platters, garnished with lemon slices and fresh herbs. This adds visual appeal and makes the dish feel more special.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: If you have leftover Lemon Pepper Baked Cod, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Allow the cod to cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation.
  2. Reheating: To reheat refrigerated baked cod, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cod fillets on a baking sheet. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out, then heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
  3. Avoid Freezing: Due to the delicate texture of cod, it’s not recommended to freeze Lemon Pepper Baked Cod, as it may become mushy and lose its flavor and texture upon thawing.
  4. Enjoy Fresh: For the best taste and texture, enjoy Lemon Pepper Baked Cod fresh on the day it’s made. While it can be refrigerated and reheated, the flavors may diminish over time, so it’s best to enjoy it while it’s fresh.
  5. Portion Control: If you’re preparing the baked cod for meal prep or leftovers, consider portioning it into individual servings before storing. This makes it easier to reheat only the desired amount without having to reheat the entire batch.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
    • While fresh cod is preferred for optimal flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen cod fillets if fresh is not available. Ensure the cod is fully thawed and pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning and baking.
  2. Is Lemon Pepper Baked Cod gluten-free?
    • Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat-based ingredients. However, be sure to check the labels of any packaged seasonings or ingredients used to ensure they are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
  3. Can I substitute other types of fish for cod in this recipe?
    • Yes, you can substitute other mild-flavored white fish such as haddock, halibut, or tilapia for the cod in this recipe. Adjust the baking time accordingly based on the thickness of the fillets.
  4. How do I know when the cod is cooked through?
    • The cod is cooked through when it turns opaque and easily flakes with a fork. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145°F (63°C).
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    • While Lemon Pepper Baked Cod is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare the seasoning mixture and slice the lemon in advance to save time. However, it’s recommended to bake the cod just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Conclusion:

With its zesty lemon flavor, aromatic black pepper, and tender cod fillets, our Lemon Pepper Baked Cod recipe is a winner for seafood lovers. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and delicious flavor. Give it a try and elevate your seafood game with this easy and nutritious recipe!

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