Baked Cod with Lemon and Thyme Recipe
Introduction
Baked cod is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Coated in seasoned flour and baked with fresh lemon and thyme, this recipe brings out the delicate taste of the fish with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp plain flour
- 4 cod loin fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- ½ small bunch of thyme
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan)/gas mark 7. Place the flour in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Coat each cod fillet evenly in the flour.
- Step 2: Heat half of the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the cod fillets for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Step 3: Transfer the browned cod fillets to a roasting tin. Arrange the 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 sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of garlic powder to the flour seasoning before coating the fish.
- Try replacing thyme with fresh dill or parsley for a different herbaceous note.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, you can lightly brush the fillets with olive oil before coating them in flour.
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 prevent the fish from drying out. It is best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod but make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before coating in flour to ensure even cooking and a good crust.
What can I serve with baked cod?
Baked cod pairs well with steamed vegetables, boiled new potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal.
Print
Baked Cod with Lemon and Thyme Recipe
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This baked cod recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to prepare tender cod loins with a crispy light flour coating, enhanced by fresh thyme and lemon. The cod is first pan-fried to golden perfection before finishing in the oven, resulting in a moist, aromatic seafood dish ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tbsp plain flour
- 4 cod loin fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- ½ small bunch of thyme
Instructions
- Prepare and season the flour: Tip the plain flour into a bowl and add salt and pepper to season. Toss each cod loin fillet in the seasoned flour, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for a light crisp exterior.
- Pan-fry the cod: Heat half the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the floured cod fillets and cook each side for about 2 minutes or until they turn golden brown, developing a flavorful crust.
- Arrange for baking: Transfer the seared cod fillets to a roasting tin. Distribute the lemon slices and fresh thyme both on top of and around the fish to infuse it with citrusy and herbal aromas.
- Bake the fish: Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the fish and bake in a preheated oven at 220°C (200°C fan, Gas Mark 7) for 10 minutes. This final baking step ensures the cod is cooked through, tender, and juicy.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cod loin fillets for a firm texture and subtle flavor.
- You can substitute plain flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free variation.
- Adjust seasoning in the flour to taste; a pinch of paprika or garlic powder can add extra flavor.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad to keep the meal nutritious and balanced.
- Ensure not to overcook the cod during baking to maintain moistness and prevent dryness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: baked cod, cod recipe, seafood dinner, healthy fish recipe, easy oven baked fish
