Baked Cod Lemon Herb Butter (Printable)
Flaky cod baked with vibrant lemon herb butter. A simple, elegant main dish, ideal for weeknights or guests. Easy to prepare.
# What's Needed:
→ Fish
01 - 4 cod fillets, approximately 6 ounces each, skinless and boneless
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - Salt, to taste
04 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Lemon Herb Butter
05 - 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
09 - 1 clove garlic, minced
10 - Zest of 1 lemon
11 - 2 tablespoons lemon juice
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a suitable baking dish to prevent sticking.
02 - Gently pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. Arrange them on the prepared baking surface. Drizzle each fillet evenly with olive oil, then season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
03 - In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with the finely chopped parsley, dill, and chives. Incorporate the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and fragrant.
04 - Evenly spread approximately half of the prepared lemon herb butter over the top surface of the cod fillets. Reserve the remaining butter for serving as a finishing touch.
05 - Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cod appears opaque throughout and flakes effortlessly with a fork. Take care to avoid overcooking to maintain optimal moisture.
06 - Carefully remove the baked cod from the oven and transfer each fillet to individual serving plates. Top each piece of cod with a generous dollop of the reserved lemon herb butter. Serve immediately for best enjoyment.
# Tips for Success:
01 -
- It's your secret weapon for a truly elegant meal that comes together faster than takeout.
- This dish delivers an incredible burst of fresh, bright flavors that will make you feel like a gourmet chef without all the fuss.
02 -
- Always pat your fish completely dry before seasoning; it makes all the difference in achieving that perfect texture.
- Fresh herbs are non-negotiable here; dried just won't give you that vibrant, bright flavor profile this dish needs.
03 -
- To ensure your fish cooks evenly, make sure your fillets are roughly the same thickness.
- Reserving half the herb butter for serving is a game-changer; it melts over the hot fish and keeps those fresh flavors vibrant.