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Baked Cod With Lemon And Capers Recipe

Baked Cod With Lemon And Capers Recipe - Easy Meals To Cook

Baked Cod with Lemon and Capers is one of those dishes that marries simplicity with flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings, yet it feels special enough for a dinner party.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

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  • 2 2 - fillets of cod, about 4 ounces each opt for thicker pieces for best results
  • 1/4 - teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 - teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 - cup capers, rinsed and drained
  • 2 - lemons one for slicing, and one for garnish
  • 2 - tablespoons high-quality extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 - clove garlic, very finely minced
  • 1/2 - teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 - teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 - tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped this adds a fresh touch

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s crucial to have the oven hot before putting the fish in, ensuring that it bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Base
  1. Grab a baking dish and lay down a couple of rows of sliced lemon. I usually make two parallel lines, just long enough to comfortably cradle the cod fillets. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the fish moist.
Step 3: Season the Cod
  1. Take the cod fillets and sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on both sides. Lay each fillet on top of those lovely lemon slices. This will enhance the flavor and allow the fish to soak up that zesty lemon goodness as it bakes.
Step 4: Add the Capers
  1. Next up, sprinkle the capers generously over the fish. Their briny flavor is going to complement the cod beautifully, adding that punch of flavor that we all crave.
Step 5: Whisk Together the Marinade
  1. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, finely minced garlic, oregano, and thyme until combined. This fragrant mixture is packed with flavor. Drizzle it evenly over each fillet, coating them well to lock in moisture while they bake.
Step 6: Bake the Cod
  1. Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and set a timer for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—it should be opaque and flake apart easily with a fork when done.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Once baked, pair your delicious cod with some fresh lemon wedges — a little squeeze will elevate the dish. Serving it immediately keeps the flavors vibrant.

Notes

- Choose Fresh Fish: Fresh cod will yield the best results. If you're using frozen, make sure to thaw thoroughly before cooking.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap herbs based on your preference. Fresh herbs like dill or basil could add an interesting twist.
- Serve Warm: Fish tends to dry out if left to sit, so aim to serve it right after cooking.
- Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently; just be cautious to avoid overcooking.
- Grill It: If you don't want to bake, try grilling the fish for an alternate flavor and texture profile.