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Slow-Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs

This baked cod recipe employs gentle, slow oven baking to unlock the fish’s natural sweetness and tender, flaky texture. Simple ingredients like lemon, herbs, and olive oil enhance the delicate flavor, resulting in a beautifully moist and melt-in-your-mouth dish. The final appearance is light, flaky, and fragrant with bright citrus and herb notes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets cod fillets skinless, thick cuts preferred
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon lemon zested and juiced, plus slices for topping
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs dill or parsley, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1/4 cup white wine or broth optional, for moisture

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Parchment paper or oil
  • Small bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Fork

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
  2. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Place them in the prepared baking dish, skin-side down if they have skin.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, and chopped herbs. Drizzle half of this mixture evenly over the fish, gently spreading it to coat each fillet.
  4. Place lemon slices on top of each fillet for aromatic brightness. Pour the white wine or broth around the fish for added moisture.
  5. Bake uncovered in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. The fish will turn opaque and start to flake easily when tested with a fork, releasing a fragrant aroma.
  6. If you'd like a slightly crisp, golden top, briefly broil the fish for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
  7. Remove the fish from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and sprinkle with remaining herbs for a fresh finish.
  8. Serve the tender, flaky fillets warm, garnished with lemon slices and herbs, enjoying the bright, delicate flavors that slow baking reveals.