The Best Homemade Cod Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade cod recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to make, even on a busy weeknight. The dish uses fresh ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store, making it convenient and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own. Finally, the tender, flaky cod paired with a light, savory sauce will leave you feeling satisfied and proud of your kitchen skills!
Recipe

Cod is a versatile and mild-flavored fish that lends itself beautifully to simple, wholesome recipes. This homemade cod recipe is easy to prepare and delivers a tender, flaky texture with a burst of fresh flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (sliced into rounds)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the mixture evenly over the cod fillets, guaranteeing they are well coated.
- Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
- For a lighter option, substitute olive oil with lemon juice or broth.
- Guarantee the cod is fresh or properly thawed if frozen for the best results.
Equipment:
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Small bowl
Basting brush
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: European
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
Cod is a nutritious fish rich in protein and low in calories. It provides essential vitamins and minerals beneficial for health.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (150g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 105 kcal |
| Protein | 23 g |
| Fat | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 70 mg |
| Potassium | 468 mg |
| Vitamin D | 4% DV |
| Calcium | 2% DV |
| Iron | 3% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade cod with fresh vegetable sides, like roasted asparagus or a crisp salad, to keep things light and balanced. For something heartier, I’ll go with flavorful grain options, such as garlic butter rice or quinoa with lemon. It’s all about finding what makes the meal feel complete for you.
Fresh Vegetable Sides
When pairing sides with cod, I find that fresh vegetables add a vibrant, healthy touch to the meal. I love roasting asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic—it’s simple but packs so much flavor. Steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon is another go-to, as it’s light and pairs perfectly with the fish. Sometimes, I’ll toss zucchini slices in a skillet with herbs for a quick sauté. These veggie sides not only balance the cod but also make the whole dish feel colorful and fresh. Trust me, they’re worth the extra prep!
Flavorful Grain Options
While cod’s mild flavor makes it a versatile main dish, pairing it with grains can turn a simple meal into something hearty and satisfying. I love serving it with fluffy quinoa, which absorbs flavors beautifully and adds a nutty twist. Brown rice is another go-to for me—its chewiness complements the fish perfectly. For something creamy, I’ll whip up risotto, stirring in herbs or lemon zest to brighten the dish. And don’t forget couscous—it’s quick, light, and pairs well with cod’s delicate texture. Experiment with these grains, and you’ll find they elevate your meal in the simplest, most delicious way.