Imagine a seafood dish so incredibly delicious and simple that it transforms an ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience. This Herb Crusted Baked Cod is your ticket to culinary magic, combining fresh, aromatic herbs with tender, flaky fish that practically melts in your mouth. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cod fillets
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the herb crust adhere better and ensures a crispy exterior.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute herbs evenly.
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture and stir to create a slightly moistened herb crust that will stick to the fish.
- Brush the cod fillets with the remaining olive oil, ensuring both sides are lightly coated. This helps the herb crust adhere and promotes even browning.
- Press the herb breadcrumb mixture onto both sides of the cod fillets, gently patting to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Place the crusted cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for even heat circulation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and additional chopped herbs if desired.
Tips
- • Always pat your cod fillets completely dry before adding the herb crust to ensure maximum crispiness. • Use fresh herbs if possible - they provide a more vibrant and intense flavor compared to dried herbs. • Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; give each fillet space to ensure even cooking and crispy edges. • For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to your breadcrumb mixture. • Check the fish early - cod cooks quickly and can dry out if left too long in the oven. • Serve immediately after cooking to maintain the crisp herb crust and enjoy the fish at its peak texture and temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 325kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
