This Easy Greek Style Baked Cod is the perfect dish for a light, yet flavorful meal. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it brings together the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and olive oil in a way that feels both refreshing and satisfying. This recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers and those looking for a healthy dinner option.
Personal Story & Background:
Greek cuisine has always held a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I had a meal in a cozy little taverna on a small Greek island. The food was so simple, yet so vibrant with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This baked cod recipe is my version of those meals—a tribute to the fresh fish and Mediterranean flavors that I fell in love with. Cod is such a versatile fish, and the combination of lemon, olive oil, garlic, and oregano makes it feel like a little bite of Greece, even if you’re not by the sea.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients, but each one plays a role in making the fish flavorful and juicy. It’s the perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner, or when you want something light yet satisfying.
Ingredient Notes:
- Cod: Cod is mild, flaky, and easy to cook, making it perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find cod, any white fish like tilapia, halibut, or haddock will work just as well.
- Olive Oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. It’s a key component of the marinade, so it’s worth investing in.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the fish. You can’t go wrong with fresh lemon juice and zest!
- Garlic: A little bit of minced garlic goes a long way in creating that Mediterranean punch of flavor.
- Oregano: Greek oregano has a distinct, earthy flavor. If you don’t have Greek oregano, regular oregano will work too, but Greek oregano is the best option if you can find it.
- Feta (Optional): Crumbled feta cheese is a nice touch for garnish if you want to add a little creaminess and a salty bite to the dish.
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to finish the dish.
Substitutions:
- No cod? Use any firm white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
- Dairy-free? Skip the feta, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the dish light and fresh.
- Herb variations: If you don’t have fresh oregano, you can substitute with dried oregano, thyme, or basil, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade and sauce for the fish.
Step 3: Season the Cod
Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinade over the fish, making sure each fillet is coated evenly. You can also let the fish marinate for 15-20 minutes in the fridge for even more flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, it’s fine to bake it right away.
Step 4: Bake the Cod
Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Depending on the thickness of the fillets, cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the oven. For an added touch, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a few extra lemon wedges. Serve the fish with the pan juices.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Watch the cook time: Cod is delicate, so it’s important not to overcook it. When it flakes easily with a fork, it’s done!
- Fresh is best: Fresh lemon and garlic make all the difference in this dish. They provide the zesty, aromatic base that elevates the cod.
- Oven temperature: Ensure the oven is preheated before placing the fish inside. This helps the cod cook evenly and retain its moisture.
Serving Suggestions:
This Easy Greek Style Baked Cod pairs wonderfully with:
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted potatoes, zucchini, or a Mediterranean veggie medley.
- Greek salad: A fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta, dressed with olive oil and lemon.
- Rice or quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Freezer: It’s best to freeze cod before cooking, as reheating cooked fish can affect the texture. If you do freeze cooked cod, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, frozen cod works great for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely before baking. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture for the best results.
Can I make this recipe without feta?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of feta, you can leave it off or substitute with another cheese, like ricotta or goat cheese, or even skip it altogether for a lighter dish.
How do I know when my cod is done?
Cod is done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If it’s still translucent in the center, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Conclusion:
This Easy Greek Style Baked Cod is a quick, light, and flavorful meal that feels like a mini Mediterranean vacation on your plate. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only healthy but bursting with vibrant flavors. I hope you give it a try and enjoy the simplicity and taste of this recipe. If you make it, be sure to share your thoughts or any personal twists you add in the comments—I love hearing how you make these recipes your own!
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Easy Greek Style Baked Cod: A Light, Flavorful Delight
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Greek Style Baked Cod is a light, flavorful dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and olive oil with tender, flaky cod. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Greek oregano preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes:
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the marinade evenly over the fish, ensuring each fillet is well coated. If time allows, marinate in the fridge for 15-20 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness.
Remove the cod from the oven. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with extra lemon wedges and drizzle with pan juices.
Notes
- Fish Substitutes: If cod isn’t available, use haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip the feta or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Flavor Boost: Add cherry tomatoes or olives to the baking dish for extra Mediterranean flair.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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