Description
Baked Cod with Lemon Herb Crust is a delicious and healthy seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets topped with a crispy, flavorful blend of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and zesty lemon. Perfect for a quick and elegant weeknight dinner, this recipe offers a buttery texture with a bright, fresh finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets
Crust
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is at the right temperature for baking the fish evenly and achieving a crisp crust.
- Prepare Crust Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, chopped dill, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well blended and evenly moistened.
- Arrange Cod Fillets: Place the cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the freshly juiced lemon over the top of the cod fillets to add brightness and enhance the freshness of the fish.
- Apply Crust Topping: Evenly spread the breadcrumb and herb mixture over the surface of each cod fillet, pressing gently to adhere it well to the fish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork and the crust is golden and crisp.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for added zing and presentation.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cod fillets to ensure the fish is tender and flaky after baking.
- If you prefer, you can substitute fresh dill with thyme or tarragon for a different herb flavor.
- Make sure not to overbake the fish to keep it moist and tender inside.
- This crust mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad to complement the flavors and make it a complete meal.
