Baked Cod with Herbs is a simple, tasty dish featuring flaky white fish baked with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and lemon. It’s light, healthy, and perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.
I like to add a squeeze of lemon on top—makes it feel extra bright. Sometimes I toss in some cherry tomatoes for color and extra flavor!
If you’re in a hurry, just sprinkle the herbs before baking and serve with a side of veggies or rice for an easy, nutritious meal.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod: I like to use fresh or thawed cod fillets for a mild, flaky texture. If you can’t find cod, haddock or flounder are good options. Keep the fillets thick enough to hold together but not too chunky.
Fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or dill): I always add fresh herbs to brighten the dish. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs can work—just use half the amount since they are more concentrated.
Olive oil or butter: These fats help keep the fish moist and flavorful. I prefer olive oil for its subtle taste, but butter adds richness. For a dairy-free version, coconut oil is a gentle substitute.
Lemon: Lemon adds a fresh, tangy punch. A little lemon zest can boost flavor even more. If lemon isn’t handy, a splash of vinegar can add acidity as an alternative.
How do I make sure my baked cod stays moist and tender?
To keep the fish moist, avoid overcooking. Bake at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes. Check for doneness by seeing if it flakes easily with a fork—no dry, tough fish! Think of it as gently cooking instead of rushing.
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for 145°F in the thickest part of the fillet.
- Cover loosely with foil during baking to trap moisture and prevent drying out.
How to Make Baked Cod with Herbs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish:
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
For the Herb Mixture:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes. Cooking: 15 minutes. Total Time: 25 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the herb mixture
Mix minced garlic, thyme, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Season the cod fillets
Brush the fillets with olive oil. Rub the herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
4. Arrange in the baking dish
Place the seasoned fillets in the dish. Top with lemon slices.
5. Bake the fish
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve and enjoy
Garnish with extra herbs if desired. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
