5 Delicious Cod Recipes You Have to Try

The delectable white fish known as cod is a staple in many cuisines worldwide. It's prized for its mild flavor, flaky texture, and versatility in cooking. Whether you're looking to impress at a dinner party or simply want to add more fish to your diet, these five cod recipes will tantalize your taste buds. Let's dive into a culinary adventure that celebrates this beautiful fish in all its glory.

Recipe 1: Lemon Herb Crusted Cod

If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, this lemon herb crusted cod is perfect for you. Here’s how you can make it:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ¹⁄₄ cup bread crumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ¹⁄₂ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Lemon slices for garnish

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil and lemon juice. Brush this mixture over the cod fillets.
3. Combine the bread crumbs, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in another bowl. Coat the top of each fillet with this herb mixture.
4. Place the fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve garnished with lemon slices and a sprig of parsley.

🌟 Note: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables.

Recipe 2: Cod in Parchment with Asparagus

Steaming cod in parchment paper, also known as “en papillote,” infuses it with delightful flavors and keeps it moist. Here’s what you need:

• 4 cod fillets
• 16 asparagus spears, trimmed
• 2 lemons, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp butter, sliced into 4 pats
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Take four large squares of parchment paper. Place a cod fillet in the center of each paper.
3. Season the fish with salt and pepper. Arrange 4 asparagus spears, lemon slices, and a pat of butter on each fillet. Place a sprig of thyme on top.
4. Fold the parchment paper over the fish and veggies, crimping the edges to seal in the steam.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
6. Open the parchment at the table for an impressive and aromatic presentation.

Recipe 3: Cod Chowder with Bacon

Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, cod chowder is comfort food at its best:

• 4 strips bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups chicken or fish stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 lb cod, cut into chunks
• Salt, pepper, and chopped chives

1. Cook the bacon in a large pot until crispy. Remove bacon, reserving the fat in the pot.
2. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
3. Stir in potatoes and stock, bring to a boil, then simmer until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the cream and bring back to a simmer.
5. Add the cod chunks and cook until the fish is just cooked through, about 4-6 minutes.
6. Return the bacon to the pot, season to taste, and serve hot, garnished with chives.

🍲 Note: The chowder can be refrigerated for up to three days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.

Recipe 4: Pan-Seared Cod with Basil Pesto

Basil pesto brings a vibrant touch to this simple pan-seared cod dish:

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• ¹⁄₂ cup fresh basil pesto
• Juice of 1 lemon

1. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the cod fillets, skin side down first, and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and fully cooked.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the fillets, then spread a generous spoonful of pesto on top of each piece just before serving.

Recipe 5: Mediterranean Baked Cod

This baked cod recipe is a burst of Mediterranean flavors:

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• ¹⁄₂ cup kalamata olives, pitted
• ¹⁄₄ cup capers
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ¹⁄₂ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix tomatoes, olives, capers, oregano, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange cod fillets in a baking dish, and spoon the Mediterranean mixture over the top.
4. Bake for about 15 minutes, then sprinkle feta cheese over the fish, and bake for another 5 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and the fish is cooked.

In wrapping up this culinary journey through five delicious cod recipes, we hope you've discovered new ways to enjoy this versatile fish. From the zesty Lemon Herb Crusted Cod to the comforting Cod Chowder with Bacon, each recipe showcases the delightful flavors and textures that cod can offer. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress, these recipes are sure to please. Remember, the key to a good fish dish is not to overcook it, so keep an eye on your oven timer and your fish will reward you with its tender, moist goodness.

What are the nutritional benefits of eating cod?

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Cod is high in protein, low in fat, and an excellent source of vitamins B12, B6, niacin, and D. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

Can these cod recipes be made ahead of time?

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While fresh fish is always best, most of these recipes can be prepped ahead. Just cook the fish right before serving to keep it from drying out or overcooking.

Are there any substitutes for cod in these recipes?

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Yes, you can substitute cod with other white, flaky fish like haddock, tilapia, or even halibut in these recipes, although cooking times may vary slightly.

What’s the best way to tell if the cod is cooked properly?

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Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. The fish should flake easily and be opaque throughout when fully cooked.