Baked Cod with Garlic-Chilli Herb Butter
Description
This baked cod with garlic-chilli herb butter is a simple yet elegant dish featuring tender, flaky cod fillets infused with rich buttery flavors, fresh herbs, and a gentle kick of chili. It’s quick, healthy, and perfect for a light yet satisfying meal—ideal for weeknights or special dinners.
Servings
3–4 servings
Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main
- 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed)
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon slices (for baking)
Garlic-Chilli Herb Butter
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill or cilantro (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven
- Set oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare cod
- Pat fillets dry with paper towel.
- Place in a baking dish.
- Season with salt, pepper, and drizzle olive oil.
- Make herb butter
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, chili flakes, parsley, dill, lemon juice, and paprika.
- Assemble
- Pour herb butter evenly over the cod.
- Place lemon slices on top or around the fish.
- Bake
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve
- Spoon extra sauce over fish and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh cod for best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overbake—cod cooks quickly and should stay moist.
- Adjust chili flakes based on spice preference.
Tips
- Add cherry tomatoes or asparagus to bake alongside the fish.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a slightly golden top.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Substitute cod with tilapia, haddock, or salmon.
Nutritional Information (Approx per serving)
- Calories: 250–300 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Omega-3 rich
Health Benefits
- High in lean protein for muscle health
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (heart & brain health)
- Low-carb & gluten-free
- Garlic supports immunity and digestion
- Herbs provide antioxidants
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen cod?
A: Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q: How do I know it’s done?
A: The fish will flake easily with a fork and appear opaque.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes, replace butter with olive oil.
Q: Can I cook it in an air fryer?
A: Yes, cook at 180°C (360°F) for 10–12 minutes.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
