Imagine a dish that effortlessly combines the delicate, flaky texture of cod with the bold, sun-kissed flavors of Greece - a culinary journey that transforms a simple fish into an extraordinary dining experience. This Cod Baked Greek Style with Lemon and Garlic isn't just a recipe; it's a passport to the Mediterranean, promising to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the cod will cook evenly and develop a nice texture.
- Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will prevent the cod from sticking and add flavor.
- Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture, ensuring a better bake.
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Evenly pour the garlic and olive oil mixture over the cod fillets, making sure each fillet is well-coated.
- Arrange the lemon slices on top of the cod fillets. The lemon will infuse the fish with a bright, zesty flavor as it bakes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Garnish the baked cod with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor before serving.
- Serve the cod hot, accompanied by your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, for a complete Greek-inspired meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Fish: Always select the freshest cod fillets possible. Look for firm, white flesh without any strong fishy smell.
- Pat Dry for Crispy Perfection: Thoroughly drying the fish before seasoning ensures a better texture and helps the marinade adhere perfectly.
- Don't Overcook: Cod is delicate and can dry out quickly. Keep a close eye and remove from the oven as soon as it becomes opaque and flakes easily.
- Maximize Flavor Infusion: Let the cod marinate for 15-20 minutes before baking to allow the garlic and oregano to deeply penetrate the fish.
- Lemon Placement Matters: Arrange lemon slices strategically to ensure even flavor distribution and prevent any dry spots.
- Serve Immediately: Baked cod is best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven, to preserve its tender texture and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg