Mediterranean Baked Cod

This Mediterranean-inspired baked cod combines tender, flaky fish with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and briny capers. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's an elegant yet effortless weeknight dinner that brings restaurant-quality results to your home kitchen.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Keyword: Fish

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 15

Total Time: 20

Servings:

Calories: 185kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

4 cod fillets about 6 oz each
2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
2 tbsp capers drained
1/2 tsp paprika
Fresh parsley for garnish
Lemon slices optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F. Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
Whisk together melted butter, lemon juice, garlic, salt, red pepper flakes, and capers in a small bowl.
Place cod fillets in the prepared baking dish and brush the sauce mixture evenly over each fillet. Sprinkle with paprika.
Bake for 15 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving immediately.

Notes

Pat cod fillets completely dry before seasoning to guarantee proper browning and prevent excess moisture

Substitute cod with halibut, sea bass, or mahi-mahi if preferred - adjust cooking time based on thickness

For extra flavor, marinate the cod in the butter mixture for 15-30 minutes before baking

Serve over rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal

Leftover cod can be flaked and used in salads or fish cakes the next day

Double the sauce recipe if you prefer extra lemony-caper flavor

For a dairy-free version, substitute melted butter with olive oil

Nutrition