Baked Cod with a Crust of Herbs and Lemon Zest
Revel in the light, flaky texture of perfectly baked cod, crowned with a golden crust of aromatic herbs and vibrant lemon zest. This dish brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your table, marrying healthful eating with uncompromising flavor. A delightful entrée that's as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 fillets cod 6 ounces each / 170 grams each
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs 120 grams
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, 8 grams
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves 3.75 grams
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 30 ml
- 1/2 tsp salt 2.5 grams
- 1/4 tsp black pepper 0.5 grams
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, and minced garlic to create the herb crust mixture.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the mixture and stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Set aside.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place the seasoned cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Gently press the breadcrumb mixture on top of each fillet, forming a crust that covers the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let the fillets rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Serve the baked cod with a side of lemon wedges for an added zesty kick.
Notes
For an extra crispy crust, place the cod under the broiler for the final 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. You can also substitute the herbs with dill or basil for a different flavor profile. Pair this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, nutritious meal.