Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy dinner? Look no further! This baked cod recipe with a crispy panko topping is your answer. It's ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and boasts a fantastic flavor combination that will impress even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a delightful alternative to fried fish, being significantly healthier and just as satisfying. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meal game!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) cod fillets, skin on or off
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish.
Prepare the Panko Topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Prepare the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle each fillet with lemon juice.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the panko mixture evenly over the top of the cod fillets.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the panko topping is golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately. This delicious and healthy dish pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some fluffy rice.
Tips for the Best Baked Cod:
- Don't overcook the cod: Overcooked cod becomes dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and lemon juice make a big difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Add some zest: For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the panko topping.
Variations:
- Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the panko mixture for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Butter Cod: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the lemon juice before adding to the cod.
- Garlic Lovers Cod: Add an extra clove of minced garlic to the panko mixture.
- Cheese Please Cod: Experiment with different types of cheese, like Asiago or Romano, in place of or in addition to Parmesan.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This baked cod recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It’s a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy panko topping adds a delightful textural contrast to the flaky cod, making this dish a true winner. Enjoy!