Easy Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill Recipe | A Healthy and Flavorful Dinner

Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill Recipe: A Deliciously Healthy Meal in Minutes! 

Imagine this—you pull a golden, flaky piece of baked cod out of your oven. The zesty aroma of fresh lemon mingles with the subtle, fragrant notes of dill. Sounds divine, doesn’t it? Well, this doesn’t have to stay in your dreams. You can recreate this fresh, vibrant dish at home with just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps. 

Oh, and here’s a little secret—this recipe was inspired by one of my favorite cookbooks, Fresh Weeknight Dinners . It’s packed with simple, wholesome recipes just like this one. Grab your copy today, and thank me later! 

This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about making baked cod with lemon and dill. Along the way, we’ll explore its health benefits, share pro cooking tips, and even suggest delicious ways to customize the recipe. Now, on to the good stuff! 

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Why Cod, Lemon, and Dill Are a Perfect Match for Your Healthy Diet 

What makes this dish such a winner? This dish is not only delicious, but it also boasts a substantial nutritional value. Here’s why you’ll love adding it to your weekly rotation. 

1. Nutritional Powerhouse (Cod) 

Cod is a mild-flavored white fish that’s low in calories but rich in lean protein, making it ideal for healthy eaters. What’s more, it’s loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for brain health and reducing inflammation. And did I mention it’s a great source of vitamins B6 and B12? These help keep your energy levels up and support a healthy nervous system. 

2. The Zest of Life (Lemon) 

Lemon doesn’t just brighten the flavor of your dish—it’s also packed with vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and promotes glowing skin. Plus, its natural acidity tenderizes the cod, lending it that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all adore. 

3. Fresh and Fragrant (Dill) 

Not only is dill a flavor superstar, but it’s also a rich source of antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamin A. Its delicate, herbaceous taste balances the richness of the cod and ties the whole dish together beautifully. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill 

Are you hungry yet? It’s time to get cooking! Follow these steps for a foolproof baked cod recipe that’s elegant enough for dinner parties and simple enough for a weeknight dinner. 

What You’ll Need 

• 4 cod fillets (fresh is ideal, but frozen works too!) 
• 1 lemon (zested and sliced) 
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped 
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 

Instructions 

• Prep the Oven 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. 

• Season the Cod 

Place the cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and evenly scatter the dill and lemon zest over the top. 

• Add Lemon Slices 

Lay the lemon slices on and around the cod fillets. They’ll infuse the fish with that irresistible citrusy flavor as they roast. 

• Bake to Perfection 

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. 

• Plate and Serve 

Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired. Pair with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal (suggestions below!). 

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Miso-Glazed Black Cod

What to Serve with Baked Cod 

• Light Sides: Roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a fresh spinach salad make perfect companions. 
• Carb Pairings: Serve with herbed quinoa, baked potatoes, or fluffy white rice for a satisfying starch. 
• Wine Pairing: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or an oaky Chardonnay will complement the dish beautifully. 

Tips for Cooking Perfect Cod 

Cooking cod can feel intimidating, but fear not! These tips will ensure your fish turns out tender, flavorful, and downright restaurant-worthy every time. 

• Choose Fresh Cod: If you can, buy fresh cod from a reputable fishmonger. Look for firm fillets with a clean, ocean-like smell. If using frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking. 
• Pat It Dry: Before seasoning, use a paper towel to pat your cod fillets dry—this ensures they bake to perfect flakiness. 
• Avoid Overcooking: Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it. A good rule of thumb is about 10 minutes of cook time per inch of thickness. 
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since this recipe is simple, every ingredient matters. A fruity, high-quality olive oil can take your cod from good to great. 

Variations and Substitutions 

No dill in the fridge? Dietary restrictions to consider? No problem—this recipe is endlessly customizable! 

• Herb Swap: Try fresh parsley, chives, or cilantro instead of dill. Each herb brings its unique flair! 
• Make It Dairy-Free: For an added layer of flavor, add a dollop of dairy-free lemony garlic butter on top just before serving. 
• Heat It Up: Love a little spice? Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle hot honey for a fiery twist. 
• Try Another Fish: This recipe works just as well with other white fish like halibut, haddock, or tilapia. 

Bring This Flavorful Dish to Your Table Tonight 

You don’t have to be a Michelin-star chef to enjoy restaurant-quality fish dishes at home. With its bright, fresh flavors and nutrient-packed ingredients, baked cod with lemon and dill is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. 

If you enjoyed this dish, be sure to check out Fresh Weeknight Dinners for more simple, healthy recipes that are sure to impress. We guarantee it’ll become a go-to in your cooking repertoire. 

Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your photos when you try this recipe!