Imagine coming home after a long day, opening your refrigerator, and finding that package of cod fillets you bought over the weekend.
You’re tired, but those fillets need to be cooked today.
Don’t settle for plain, boring fish. With the right recipe, you can transform that cod into a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
Whether you prefer crispy and herb-crusted or simmered in a coconut curry, there’s a simple preparation method that will fit your mood and pantry ingredients tonight.
Crispy Baked Cod With Lemon-Herb Crust
This crispy baked cod delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The light, flaky fish is topped with a vibrant lemon-herb crust that bakes to golden perfection, creating a satisfying crunch that complements the tender fish beneath.
Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an elegant yet simple weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, dill, lemon zest, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture and stir until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Step 5: Brush the tops of the cod fillets with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then drizzle with lemon juice.
Step 6: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet, creating an even layer.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the crust is golden brown.
Step 8: If desired, broil for the final 1-2 minutes to get a perfectly crispy crust, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving with fresh lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 240 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Mediterranean Spiced Cod With Tomatoes and Olives
This Mediterranean-inspired cod dish brings together the bright flavors of tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs. The delicate cod fillets are seasoned with a fragrant spice blend, then gently cooked with a vibrant tomato sauce for a light yet satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cod fillets and sear for 2 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Remove the fish and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add the garlic and red bell pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 6: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and bring to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 5 minutes until it starts to thicken.
Step 7: Stir in the olives and lemon juice, then nestle the cod fillets back into the sauce.
Step 8: Cover the skillet and simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 9: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and basil before serving.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Honey-Mustard Glazed Cod Fillets
This delicious honey-mustard glazed cod combines the flaky texture of fresh cod with a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully when baked.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality fish dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them in a lightly oiled baking dish.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Generously brush the honey-mustard mixture over the cod fillets, ensuring they’re evenly coated on all sides.
Step 4: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: For extra caramelization, switch the oven to broil for the final 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 240 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 420mg
Coconut Curry Cod With Fragrant Jasmine Rice
This vibrant coconut curry cod dish combines tender fish fillets with a creamy, aromatic sauce infused with fragrant spices.
Served over fluffy jasmine rice, this meal brings together the tropical flavors of coconut, the warmth of curry, and the delicate texture of fresh cod for a dinner that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a medium saucepan, combine rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
Step 2: While the rice cooks, season the cod fillets with salt and pepper on both sides and set aside.
Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in curry powder and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Add red bell pepper and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 5: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Carefully place the cod fillets into the simmering sauce.
Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Once the fish is cooked, drizzle with lime juice and gently stir to incorporate without breaking the fillets.
Step 8: Fluff the jasmine rice with a fork and divide between four plates.
Place a cod fillet on each plate and spoon the coconut curry sauce over the top.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Sugar: 4g
Garlic Butter Cod With Roasted Vegetables
This simple yet elegant garlic butter cod dish pairs perfectly with colorful roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The flaky white fish absorbs the rich garlic butter flavor while the vegetables caramelize in the oven, creating a delicious and nutritious dinner option that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, half juiced and half sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with olive oil, half of the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Spread the vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Meanwhile, pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
Step 5: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon juice and remove from heat.
Step 6: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and create spaces among the vegetables for the cod fillets. Place the cod on the sheet and drizzle with the garlic butter mixture.
Step 7: Arrange lemon slices on top of the fish and return to the oven for another 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 80% DV
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 8% DV
Middle Eastern Cod With Sumac and Tahini Sauce
This aromatic Middle Eastern cod dish combines the tangy flavor of sumac with creamy tahini sauce for a delightful seafood experience. The cod fillets are seasoned with warm spices and pan-seared to perfection, then topped with a silky tahini sauce that complements the delicate fish beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons sumac, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice, divided
- ⅓ cup tahini paste
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix sumac, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and rub the spice mixture all over them. Let marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature.
Step 3: While the fish marinates, prepare the tahini sauce by whisking together tahini paste, half of the lemon juice, minced garlic, and water in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
Step 4: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Transfer the cooked cod to serving plates. Drizzle with the remaining lemon juice.
Step 6: Spoon the tahini sauce over the fish and around the plate. Sprinkle with additional sumac, fresh parsley, and mint.
Step 7: Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Lemon-Pepper Air Fryer Cod Fillets
Crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, these lemon-pepper cod fillets are a quick weeknight dinner solution.
The air fryer gives them a delightful crunch without excess oil, while the bright lemon and aromatic pepper create a perfect flavor balance that complements the mild cod.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 2: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and paprika.
Step 4: Brush both sides of each cod fillet with the lemon-pepper mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Step 5: Place the cod fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
Step 6: Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 7: Carefully remove the cod fillets from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes.
Step 8: Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite sides like steamed vegetables or a light salad.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 195 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Cholesterol: 73mg
Teriyaki Glazed Cod With Stir-Fried Vegetables
This Asian-inspired cod dish combines tender cod fillets with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, served alongside vibrant stir-fried vegetables.
The simple preparation highlights the delicate flavor of the cod while the colorful vegetables add texture and nutrition to create a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger to make the teriyaki sauce.
Step 2: Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over them. Cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to marinate.
Step 3: While the fish marinates, prepare the vegetables by washing and cutting them into similar-sized pieces.
Step 4: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add this to the remaining teriyaki sauce and set aside.
Step 5: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the vegetables and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until they’re crisp-tender. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Step 6: Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the same pan. Remove the cod from the marinade (discard this used marinade) and place fillets in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Pour the reserved teriyaki sauce (with cornstarch mixture) into the pan with the cod. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the fish.
Step 8: Return the vegetables to the pan and gently toss to coat everything in the sauce.
Step 9: Serve the cod and vegetables over brown rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Sugar: 12g
Herb-Crusted Cod With Mango Salsa
This herb-crusted cod with mango salsa combines flaky, tender fish with a crisp herb coating and fresh, zesty fruit salsa. The bright tropical flavors of the mango salsa perfectly complement the delicate cod, creating a light yet satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and visually stunning.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
Step 4: Brush each cod fillet with Dijon mustard on all sides, then dredge in the herb breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 5: Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Step 6: Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: While the fish is baking, prepare the mango salsa by combining diced mangoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and honey in a bowl.
Step 8: Season with a pinch of salt and gently toss.
Step 9: Let the salsa sit for at least 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Step 10: Serve the herb-crusted cod topped with generous spoonfuls of mango salsa.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 380mg
Final Thoughts
These nine cod recipes can transform your dinner routine like a culinary life preserver.
Just as a lighthouse guides ships to safe harbor, they’ll navigate you through hectic weeknights and special occasions with minimal effort.
You’ll wonder why you hadn’t added cod to your rotation sooner!
Remember, the best meals aren’t about complexity—they’re about fresh ingredients and simple techniques that let natural flavors shine.
