You know those days when you crave something light yet satisfying? Something that whispers of the sea and summer breezes? Well, my friends, I’ve got just the recipe for you: Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs. It’s as if the ocean decided to send a gift directly to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- Cod Fillets: We start with 4 beautiful cod fillets, each about 6 ounces. Think of these as blank canvases, ready to absorb every flavor we introduce.
- Lemons: Next, we have our lemons, two bright and cheerful ones. They’re here to bring a bit of sunshine and zest into our dish.
- Garlic: Then, 4 cloves of garlic, minced – because garlic is the soul of any savory dish, isn’t it?
- Fresh Herbs: Here’s where the magic happens. I love using a mix of parsley, dill, and thyme – about a tablespoon of each, finely chopped. They’re like the chorus in our culinary symphony.
- Olive Oil: About 2 tablespoons. It’s like the liquid gold that brings it all together.
- Salt and Pepper: The trusty duo, for that perfect seasoning.
Now, let’s cook:
- Begin with the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, lovingly brush a baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
- Prep the Cod: Sprinkle some salt and pepper on the cod fillets. Every sprinkle is a promise of flavor.
- Layer the Lemon: Slice one lemon thinly and lay these slices in the baking dish. Rest the cod on top, like they’re floating on a lemony lagoon.
- Garlic and Herbs, Please: Sprinkle the minced garlic and herbs over the cod. Imagine you’re in a sunny garden, picking these herbs with your own hands.
- Last Lemon Call: Squeeze the juice of the second lemon over the cod. Close your eyes and breathe in – it smells like a Mediterranean holiday, doesn’t it?
- Bake it Away: Gently place the dish in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes. You want the cod to be tender, flaky, and cooked with love.
- The Reveal: Once done, take it out. The aroma is just heavenly – it’s like the kitchen is hugging you.
Serving it Right:
Pair this with a simple side – maybe steamed green beans or a light salad. And why not pour a glass of white wine? A crisp Pinot Grigio perhaps, to celebrate the day.
And there you have it:
A dish that’s not just food, but a story. A tale of the sea, of sunny gardens, and of simple joys. This Baked Cod with Lemon and Herbs is more than a meal; it’s a moment of peace, a delight for the senses. Try it, savor it, and let the flavors tell their own story on your palate. Happy cooking, dear friends! 🍋🌿🐟
