Lemon and Thyme Baked Cod Recipe
Introduction
Baked cod is a simple, flavorful dish that highlights the delicate texture of fresh fish. With a light coating of flour and fragrant thyme, this recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp plain flour
- 4 cod loin fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- ½ small bunch of thyme
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or gas mark 7. Tip the flour into a bowl and season lightly with salt and pepper. Turn each cod fillet in the flour until evenly coated.
- Step 2: Heat half the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the cod fillets and fry for 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Step 3: Transfer the cod to a roasting tin. Arrange lemon slices and thyme sprigs on and around the fish, then drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
- Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a few garlic cloves or sprinkle some paprika to the flour before coating the fish.
- If you prefer, substitute thyme with dill or parsley for a different herbal note.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad to keep the meal fresh and wholesome.
Storage
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cod fillets can be used. Make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before coating with flour to ensure even cooking and a good sear.
How do I know when the cod is cooked through?
The cod is cooked when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The baking time may vary slightly depending on fillet thickness.
PrintLemon and Thyme Baked Cod Recipe
This baked cod recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to prepare tender, flaky cod fillets with a light coating of seasoned flour, a golden sear, and a burst of fresh lemon and thyme flavors. The cod is quickly pan-fried before being baked to perfection, making it an ideal choice for a healthy and flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 3 tbsp plain flour
- 4 cod loin fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- ½ small bunch of thyme
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Flour Coating: Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or gas mark 7. Pour the plain flour into a bowl and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Dredge each cod fillet in the seasoned flour, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.
- Pan-fry the Cod: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the floured cod fillets into the pan and fry each side for approximately 2 minutes, or until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Transfer and Prepare for Baking: Carefully transfer the seared cod fillets into a roasting tin. Arrange lemon slices and sprigs of thyme on top of and around the fish. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the fillets and herbs to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Bake the Cod: Place the roasting tin into the preheated oven and bake the cod for 10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through, opaque, and flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- You can substitute plain flour with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Ensure not to overcook the fish to keep it moist and tender.
- Fresh thyme pairs excellently with the lemon; dried thyme can be used but use sparingly.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Keywords: baked cod, cod recipes, healthy cod, oven-baked fish, lemon thyme cod, easy fish dinner
