Description

Indulge in a culinary adventure with our tantalizing Lemon Butter Baked Cod recipe. Bursting with flavor and simplicity, this dish promises a delightful dining experience that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Let’s explore how to create this delectable seafood masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Butter Baked Cod:

2 lb cod fillet (any white fish)
1/4 cup butter or margarine
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Dash(es) paprika
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preparing the Cod:

Cut fillets into serving sizes, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.

2. Creating the Lemon Butter Mixture:

Melt butter in a saucepan or microwave. Add lemon juice to the melted butter, creating a flavorful base for the cod.

3. Coating the Cod:

In another dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper. This seasoned flour mixture will add a delicious crust to the cod.
Dip each piece of cod into the butter-lemon mixture, ensuring it is coated well on all sides.
Next, coat the buttered cod fillets with the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

4. Baking the Cod:

Place the coated fillets in an ungreased baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
Drizzle the remaining butter-lemon mixture over the fillets, infusing them with rich flavor.
Sprinkle the entire dish with paprika, adding a touch of color and additional flavor.
Bake the cod, uncovered, in a preheated 350°F oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

5. Garnishing and Serving:

Once baked to perfection, garnish the Lemon Butter Baked Cod with parsley and lemon wedges for a vibrant presentation.
Serve the cod hot, alongside your favorite side dishes or a fresh salad, and enjoy the irresistible flavor of this mouthwatering seafood dish.

Notes

Serving Suggestions:

Fresh Salad Accompaniment:
- Serve the Lemon Butter Baked Cod alongside a crisp, fresh salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The bright flavors of the salad will complement the rich, buttery cod beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables:
- Pair the cod with a medley of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. The caramelized flavors of the vegetables will add depth to the dish.
Herbed Rice or Quinoa:
- Serve the cod over a bed of herbed rice or quinoa for a wholesome and satisfying meal. The lemony butter sauce from the cod will infuse the grains with delicious flavor.
Crusty Bread:
- Enjoy the cod with slices of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. This makes for a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for dipping and savoring every last bite.
Lemon Wedges and Parsley Garnish:
- Garnish the plated cod with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Squeezing a wedge of lemon over the fish just before serving will enhance the citrusy notes.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration:
- Store any leftover Lemon Butter Baked Cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Be sure to allow the cod to cool completely before storing.
Reheating:
- To reheat the cod, gently warm it in a preheated oven or microwave until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it may become dry.
Freezing:
- While it’s best to enjoy the Lemon Butter Baked Cod fresh, you can freeze any leftover portions for future meals. Place the cooled cod in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Thawing:
- When ready to enjoy the frozen cod, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This will help preserve the texture and flavor of the fish.
Use Within Recommended Timeframe:
- For the best quality and flavor, consume the stored cod within the recommended timeframe. Avoid refreezing previously frozen cod once it has been thawed.