Baked Cod with Garlic-Chilli Herb Butter

Baked Cod with Garlic-Chilli Herb Butter

Table of Contents

 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

  1. Preheat oven
    • Set oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Prepare cod
    • Pat fillets dry with paper towel.
    • Place in a baking dish.
    • Season with salt, pepper, and drizzle olive oil.
  3. Make herb butter
    • In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, chili flakes, parsley, dill, lemon juice, and paprika.
  4. Assemble
    • Pour herb butter evenly over the cod.
    • Place lemon slices on top or around the fish.
  5. Bake
    • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
  6. 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.
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 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.