Enjoy a light and flavorful seafood experience with this Lemon Herb Baked Cod.
The baked cod fillets are seasoned with a zesty herb blend, baked to perfection, and served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also a healthy and delicious way to incorporate more fish into your diet.
Ingredients:
For the Baked Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Lemon slices for garnish
For the Roasted Vegetables:
- 1 lb (about 450g) baby potatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby carrots
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Baked Cod
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season Cod Fillets:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Create Herb Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, chopped thyme, chopped parsley, chopped rosemary, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- Marinate the Cod:
- Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the herb marinade over them. Ensure each fillet is well coated. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
- Bake the Cod:
- Transfer the marinated cod fillets to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Drizzle with Remaining Marinade:
- During the last few minutes of baking, drizzle the remaining herb marinade over the cod fillets for extra flavor.
Step 2: Roasting the Vegetables
- Prep Vegetables:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes, baby carrots, sliced zucchini, and sliced red bell pepper with olive oil, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and smoked paprika.
- Roast Vegetables:
- Spread the seasoned vegetables on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden and tender, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Step 3: Serving
- Plate and Garnish:
- Arrange the baked cod fillets on serving plates. Surround them with the roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with Lemon Slices:
- Garnish the dish with lemon slices for a fresh and citrusy touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Herb Quinoa or Rice:
- Serve the Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Roasted Vegetables over a bed of herb-infused quinoa or rice.
- Garlic Butter Sauce:
- Drizzle with a simple garlic butter sauce for an extra layer of richness.
Conclusion:
This Lemon Herb Baked Cod with Roasted Vegetables is a wholesome and flavorful meal that brings together the freshness of fish and the earthy goodness of vegetables. The combination of zesty herbs and lemon infuses the cod with brightness, while the roasted vegetables add a satisfying depth. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a delightful way to savor the delicate flavors of baked cod. Enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!