Mediterranean Baked Cod with Lemon, Capers, and Cilantro Recipe
This Mediterranean Fish recipe features tender cod fillets baked in a flavorful blend of olive oil, butter, aromatic spices, garlic, capers, and fresh lemon. The simple preparation with fresh herbs and citrus makes for a delightful, healthy, and vibrant dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fish and Marinade
- 1 lb. cod fillet
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Zest of 1 lemon + lemon slices
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the fish evenly.
- Prepare the cod. Place the cod fillet into a large baking dish, ensuring it lays flat to cook uniformly.
- Mix and pour marinade. In a small glass measuring cup, combine the olive oil and melted butter, then pour this mixture over the cod, coating it well.
- Season the fish. Sprinkle the ground coriander, paprika, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper evenly over the cod to infuse flavor.
- Add toppings. Top the cod with the lemon zest, lemon slices, thinly sliced garlic, and capers for an aromatic and tangy profile.
- Bake the fish. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cod flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is fully cooked and tender.
- Garnish and serve. Once baked, garnish the fish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving for freshness and color.
Notes
- Be cautious not to overcook the cod to keep it moist and flaky.
- Capers provide a briny tang; adjust quantity based on your preference.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the brightest citrus flavor.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
