Description
This Lemon Parmesan Cod recipe features tender cod fillets baked to perfection with a flavorful crust of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and lemon zest. A quick and easy dish, it balances rich, cheesy flavors with fresh citrus for a delightful, healthy seafood meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasonings
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
Additional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Parmesan Coating: In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful crust mixture.
- Prepare Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to ensure the coating adheres properly to the surface of the fish.
- Brush with Olive Oil and Add Lemon Zest: Brush both sides of each cod fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle lemon zest evenly over the fillets to infuse fresh lemon flavor.
- Apply Parmesan Mixture: Generously coat the top of each fillet with the prepared Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks well to the fish.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated cod fillets spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet, ready for baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the fish becomes opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and the Parmesan crust turns golden brown.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the cod from the oven and drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over the fillets for added brightness.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to enhance the flavor.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry before coating helps the Parmesan mixture adhere better and creates a crispier crust.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best citrus flavor impact.
- Keep an eye on the fish during baking to prevent overcooking, as cod can dry out quickly.
- For a variation, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mixture for a slight kick.
- The recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
