The aroma of citrus and herbs wafting through the kitchen is enough to lift anyone’s spirits, especially on a busy weeknight. Enter Lemon Dill Baked Cod, a quick and healthy dinner delight that brings lightness to the table without fuss. This dish stars flaky cod fillets, baked to perfection and topped with a creamy lemon-dill sauce that sings with freshness. As a bonus, it’s not only low-carb and gluten-free but also customizable—feel free to experiment with different types of fish or dairy-free options! Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply dive into a nourishing meal, this cod recipe is here to answer your culinary prayers. Are you ready to bring a slice of sunshine to your dinner plate?
Why is Lemon Dill Baked Cod a Must-Try?
Bright, Fresh Flavors: This dish showcases the perfect harmony of citrus and herbs, elevating your dinner experience.
Quick & Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, dinner is served in just 30 minutes—ideal for busy nights!
Health Conscious: Low-carb and gluten-free, it’s a guilt-free seafood choice that everyone can enjoy.
Versatile Variations: Switch out cod for haddock or try a dairy-free sauce; you’ll never run out of options!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a chilled cucumber salad for a meal that’s sure to impress. Give this Peach Baked Oatmeal a try for a perfect pairing at dessert!
Lemon Dill Baked Cod Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need for a delicious lemon dill baked cod experience!
For the Cod
- Cod Fillets – A lean source of protein that’s flaky and tender; feel free to swap for haddock or halibut.
- Olive Oil – Keeps the fish moist and aids in even cooking for that perfect flaky texture.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the cod.
- Garlic Powder – Adds subtle depth; fresh garlic can be used for a more intense flavor.
- Paprika (optional) – Introduces a mild, smoky flavor to complement the fish nicely.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream – Imparts creaminess; plant-based yogurt works great for a dairy-free option.
- Mayonnaise (optional) – Enhances the richness; skip it for a lighter sauce if you prefer.
- Fresh Dill (or dried) – The star flavoring agent; fresh is always best for that vibrant taste.
- Lemon Juice and Zest – Provides that burst of brightness and acidity; essential for the lemon dill baked cod flavor profile.
- Dijon Mustard – A hint of tang that lifts the sauce’s creaminess beautifully.
Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or planning a gathering, these ingredients will set you on the right path to experiencing this lemon dill baked cod delight!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lemon Dill Baked Cod
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. This step ensures that your Lemon Dill Baked Cod cooks evenly and maintains its delightful texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets
Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are well spaced apart. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over each fillet, then season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if desired. This adds flavor and enhances the moisture during baking, ensuring a delicious outcome.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake the cod for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know your Lemon Dill Baked Cod is ready when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, as the goal is a tender and flaky texture.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the cod is baking, prepare your creamy lemon-dill sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), fresh dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve the Dish
Once the cod is out of the oven, place the cooked fillets on plates or a serving platter. Generously spoon the lemon-dill sauce over each fillet, making sure to cover them well. For an added touch of freshness, garnish with lemon slices that beautifully complement the flavors of your Lemon Dill Baked Cod.
Expert Tips for Lemon Dill Baked Cod
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close watch on the cod; it should be opaque and flaky yet moist. Overcooking will lead to dryness.
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Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lemon and dill instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile in your Lemon Dill Baked Cod.
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Sauce Alternatives: If you want a lighter option, skip the mayonnaise or use a dairy-free yogurt to keep the dish healthy and delicious.
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Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat gently to maintain the fish’s tenderness.
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Experiment with Fish: Don’t hesitate to try other firm white fish like haddock or halibut, as they can create delightful variations of this recipe.
What to Serve with Lemon Dill Baked Cod
The delightful flavors of lemon and dill make for a light and refreshing meal, perfect for pairing with satisfying sides.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, they provide a comforting contrast to the flaky fish without overpowering its delicate flavor.
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Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers lend a sweet, savory crunch that complements the dish beautifully. The vibrant colors also brighten your plate!
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Quinoa Salad: A nutty, protein-packed side that adds a lovely texture and is perfect for absorbing the creamy lemon-dill sauce. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added freshness.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad’s cool crunch is an excellent palate cleanser alongside the rich flavors of the fish. Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice for a lovely zing.
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Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery layers pair wonderfully with the fish, allowing you to soak up every drop of that creamy lemon-dill sauce.
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White Wine Spritzer: A light and bubbly concoction that pairs well with the citrusy notes, bringing a refreshing element to your dinner table. Perfect for unwinding after a long day!
Make Ahead Options
Lemon Dill Baked Cod is perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can marinate the cod fillets in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. For the creamy lemon-dill sauce, mix the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and seasonings, and store this in the fridge up to 3 days ahead—this keeps it fresh and ready to go! When it’s time to cook, simply bake the marinated cod for 12 to 15 minutes and top it with your prepped sauce just before serving for a delightful meal that feels effortless yet delicious.
Lemon Dill Baked Cod: Customization Ideas
Feel free to add your own twist to this delicious recipe, experimenting with flavors and textures that excite your palate!
- Fish Swap: Substitute cod with haddock or halibut for a different flavor profile while keeping the dish light and flaky.
- Dairy-Free: Replace Greek yogurt with a thick, unsweetened plant yogurt to make it a creamy yet dairy-free delight.
- Herb Alternatives: Try using chives or parsley in place of dill; while the flavor is milder, it still adds a lovely fresh note.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes to the creamy sauce for a touch of heat that transforms the dish into a warming winter meal!
- Lemon Zest Boost: Increase the lemon zest in the sauce for a brighter, more citrusy flavor that complements the cod beautifully.
- Mayo-Free Sauce: Omit mayonnaise for a lighter version of the sauce without sacrificing creaminess; the Greek yogurt holds its own!
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular for a hint of smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the fish.
- Zesty Sauce Variations: Swap Dijon mustard with whole-grain mustard for added texture and a different flavor dynamic in your sauce.
Pair your Lemon Dill Baked Cod with delightful sides like Baked Parmesan Zucchini or some fresh greens for a complete meal that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Lemon Dill Baked Cod
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture and texture.
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Freezer: For longer preservation, wrap individual cooked cod fillets in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cod in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
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Sauce Storage: Prepare fresh lemon-dill sauce each time, as it’s best enjoyed immediately. If making ahead, store in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Lemon Dill Baked Cod Recipe FAQs
What kind of cod fillets should I choose?
When selecting cod fillets, look for those that are firm, moist, and have a clean ocean smell. Fresh fillets should have a bright white color without any dark spots. If fresh isn’t available, frozen cod works well too—just ensure it’s properly thawed before cooking.
How should I store leftover Lemon Dill Baked Cod?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps maintain their moisture and flakiness, giving you a delightful meal all over again!
Can I freeze Lemon Dill Baked Cod?
Yes, you can! Wrap individual cooked cod fillets tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the cod in the fridge overnight, and then reheat gently in the oven to preserve its texture.
What if my Lemon Dill Baked Cod is overcooked?
If by chance your cod turns out a bit overcooked, don’t worry! To add moisture back, consider serving it with a generous spoonful of the lemon-dill sauce. You could also place it in a broth or even a light sauce while reheating to make it more enjoyable.
Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
Very much so! To make the Lemon Dill Baked Cod dairy-free, simply swap the Greek yogurt with a thick, unsweetened plant-based yogurt. This adjustment will still keep the creamy texture and delicious flavor of the sauce, making it a delightful choice for everyone at the table.
What should I do with the sauce if I have leftovers?
If you have any leftover lemon-dill sauce, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor. You can use it as a dressing for salads or as a dip for fresh veggies for a lovely snack!
Lemon Dill Baked Cod: Easy, Healthy Dinner You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the cod fillets on the baking sheet, drizzle olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Bake the cod for 12 to 15 minutes until opaque and flaky.
- In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise (if using), dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic (if using), salt, and pepper, stirring until smooth.
- Serve the baked cod with the lemon-dill sauce on top and garnish with lemon slices.
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