Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This creamy baked cod with a vibrant lemon-herb crust is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe is packed with flavor, and the combination of flaky cod, creamy sauce, and zesty herbs is simply irresistible. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, healthy dish that's perfect for a delightful homemade meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 (4-6 ounce) cod fillets, skin on or off
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Prepare the Cod:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
Make the Herb Crust:
- In a small bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, feta cheese, parsley, dill, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Mix well.
Assemble and Bake:
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the cod.
- Top each fillet evenly with the cheese and herb mixture.
- If using, pour the white wine around the cod in the baking dish.
- Pour the heavy cream evenly over the fish and cheese topping.
Baking and Serving:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
- Let the cod rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs before serving, if desired.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fish:
- Don't overcook the cod! Overcooked cod will be dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs make a huge difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Asiago, goat cheese, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious.
- Add vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini would be a great addition to this meal. Simply roast them alongside the cod.
Variations:
- Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Cod: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives for some of the herbs.
- Creamy Tomato Sauce: Replace the heavy cream with a simple tomato sauce for a lighter option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This creamy baked cod with lemon-herb crust is a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of flaky cod, creamy sauce, and zesty herbs is simply irresistible, making it a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy!