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Zesty Lemon Butter Cod

Featured in: Fresh Seafood Recipes from Coast to Coast

Zesty Lemon Butter Cod turns plain fish into something special. The cod bakes in melted butter, garlic, and freshly squeezed lemon for a tangy-rich combo. A sprinkle of thyme, paprika, and lemon rind brings the flavors to life, all while keeping the fish moist and flaky. With just 25 minutes of cooking, this Mediterranean-inspired meal is a breeze. It’s perfect for easy weeknight meals or when you want to impress without the hassle.
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Updated on Sat, 08 Mar 2025 16:14:37 GMT
Zesty Lemon Butter Cod Pin it
Zesty Lemon Butter Cod | yummygusto.com

Lemon Butter Baked Cod elevates mild, flaky cod fillets into an elegant dinner with bright citrus and rich butter. This classic preparation proves that exceptional seafood dishes can come from just a few quality ingredients combined with proper technique.

The magic of this dish lies in its perfectly balanced lemon butter sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of fresh cod while keeping it moist and tender.

Key Ingredients

  • Cod fillets: Fresh, thick cuts with bright white color
  • Butter: High-quality unsalted variety
  • Lemons: Fresh for both zest and juice
  • Olive oil: Extra virgin for best flavor
  • Garlic: Fresh cloves, finely minced
  • Parsley: Chopped fresh herbs for garnish

Cooking Method

Step 1: Initial Setup
Remove cod from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking. Heat oven to 400°F. Line baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Create Sauce
Slowly melt butter, mix with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice and zest until well blended.
Step 3: Prepare Fish
Thoroughly pat cod dry. Season with salt and pepper. Place in prepared dish.
Step 4: Bake
Pour sauce over fish. Bake 12-15 minutes until fish flakes easily.
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Delicious Lemon Butter Baked Cod | yummygusto.com

Serving Suggestions

Complement this cod with roasted seasonal vegetables or fluffy rice to soak up the sauce. A chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with the lemony flavors.

Storage Instructions

Prepare the sauce up to three days ahead. Store properly refrigerated. Leftover fish stays fresh for two days when refrigerated in an airtight container.

Recipe Variations

Enhance with capers and fresh herbs, or top with crispy breadcrumbs. Summer variations can include cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.

Nutritional Benefits

This lean protein dish provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and minerals while staying relatively low in calories.

Make It Ahead

Double the recipe for planned leftovers. Use extra portions in fish tacos or salads the next day.

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Close-up Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe | yummygusto.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I cook with frozen cod fillets?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight and pat them dry to avoid extra liquid during cooking.
→ When is the fish fully cooked?
The cod is done when it’s no longer see-through and flakes effortlessly with a fork. Make sure the inside temperature is at least 145°F.
→ Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can mix up the sauce a day ahead and keep it chilled, but it’s best to bake the fish fresh for tastier results.
→ What’s a good side dish for this meal?
Pair it with rice pilaf, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad to round out your plate.
→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Swap out the butter for some olive oil or a vegan butter option that works well with baking.

Zesty Lemon Butter Cod

Tender cod cooked in a garlicky, lemony butter sauce with herby goodness. This effortless dish is a standout for healthy, delicious meals.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes
By: Sandra

Category: Ocean Flavors

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

→ Fish

01 Four cod fillets, each weighing 6 ounces

→ Seasonings

02 Three garlic cloves, chopped up finely
03 A teaspoon of lemon peel zest
04 Half a teaspoon of smoked paprika
05 Half a teaspoon of dried thyme
06 Add some salt and ground black pepper to your taste

→ Sauce Base

07 One-quarter cup (60 grams) of melted unsalted butter
08 Two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
09 Three tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice (roughly from one lemon)

→ Garnish

10 Two tablespoons of parsley, chopped fresh
11 Slices of lemon to serve on the side

Instructions

Step 01

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking pan lightly

Step 02

Mix together the melted butter, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, zest, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper

Step 03

Lay the cod fillets in your baking pan, then pour the lemon butter sauce over them and make sure they’re well coated

Step 04

Bake for around 12-15 minutes until the cod turns completely white and can break apart easily using a fork

Step 05

Before serving, sprinkle the parsley on top and add the lemon slices

Notes

  1. This recipe also works great using white fish like tilapia or haddock
  2. If you like some heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes

Tools You'll Need

  • Pan for baking
  • A small bowl for mixing
  • A whisk for stirring

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Fish
  • Dairy (from butter)