Imagine this: it’s a beautiful summer evening, and you’re craving a delicious and healthy meal that will satisfy your taste buds. The aroma of aromatic spices and zesty lemon fills the air as you prepare an easy oven-baked cod loin recipe. The anticipation builds as you know that this meal will be nothing short of fresh and flavorful.
For a moment, pause and imagine taking your first bite, and feeling the tender, flaky cod melt in your mouth, perfectly seasoned with bold Mediterranean spices. The combination of garlic, lemon, coriander, and cumin creates a symphony of flavors that excite every taste bud.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this cod loin recipe is a breeze to make. The quick cooking time of just over 20 minutes means that you’ll have a healthy and satisfying dinner on the table in no time.
Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the details of this easy cod loin recipe, so you can experience the delightful flavors and simplicity of this Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make this easy cod loin recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cod fillet pieces | 1.5 lb (4-6 pieces) |
| Fresh lemon juice | 5 tbsp |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 5 tbsp |
| Melted butter | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 5 |
| All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup |
| Ground coriander | 1 tsp |
| Sweet Spanish paprika | 3/4 tsp |
| Ground cumin | 3/4 tsp |
| Kosher salt | 3/4 tsp |
| Chopped fresh parsley leaves | 1/4 cup |
Begin by gathering the necessary ingredients for this delicious cod loin recipe. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Now, let’s move on to the preparation.
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, ground coriander, sweet Spanish paprika, ground cumin, and kosher salt. Whisk everything together until well combined.
Next, place the all-purpose flour on a plate. Dip each cod fillet piece into the flour, coating it evenly on all sides.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the skillet, then carefully place the coated cod fillets into the hot skillet.
Sear the cod fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. Remove the skillet from the heat.
“Remember to always handle the cod fillets gently to keep them intact during the searing process.”
Now, pour the prepared lemon-garlic sauce over the top of the seared cod fillets. Make sure to coat them evenly. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley leaves on top.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork.
Once the cod loin is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve the cod loin hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Details
This easy cod loin recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Each serving contains approximately 319.3 calories and is a good source of protein, with 25.8g per serving. It is also relatively low in carbohydrates, with 9.6g per serving.
The recipe includes heart-healthy ingredients like fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and garlic, which provide essential nutrients and contribute to the overall nutritional value of the dish. Cod loin itself is a lean source of protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to offer various health benefits, including supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
Here is a breakdown of the nutrition details for this cod loin recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 319.3 |
| Protein | 25.8g |
| Carbohydrates | 9.6g |
This cod loin recipe provides a well-rounded and nutritious meal option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful dinner without compromising their health. Its balanced macronutrients and inclusion of heart-healthy ingredients make it a satisfying and wholesome choice that supports a healthy lifestyle.
Stay tuned for the next section of our article, where we will share cooking tips and variations to help you make the most out of this delicious cod loin recipe.
Cooking Tips and Variations
When cooking cod loin, it is important to use the right temperature and cooking time to achieve the best results. For this delicious cod loin recipe, the oven should be preheated to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). The cod loin is then baked for approximately 10 minutes until it becomes perfectly cooked and flaky. However, please note that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. To ensure doneness, gently flake the fish with a fork. It should easily separate into large, tender flakes.
Now that you know how to cook cod loin, let’s explore some variations to add even more flavor and excitement to this dish:
Variation 1: Lemon Herb Cod Loin
Add a refreshing twist to your cod loin recipe by incorporating lemon and herbs. Before baking, generously drizzle the cod loin with fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or dill. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs will infuse the fish with bright, summery flavors. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variation 2: Spicy Cajun Cod Loin
For those who prefer a hint of spice, try a Cajun-inspired twist on your cod loin. Mix together a blend of Cajun spices, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and generously rub it onto the cod loin before baking. The spicy Cajun seasoning will give the fish a bold and fiery kick. Serve it with a cool and creamy coleslaw to balance out the heat.
Variation 3: Mediterranean Baked Cod Loin
Take your taste buds on a trip to the Mediterranean with this flavorful variation. Before baking, top the cod loin with a mixture of diced tomatoes, olives, red onions, and feta cheese. Sprinkle some dried oregano and a drizzle of olive oil on top for an extra burst of Mediterranean flavors. The combination of tangy tomatoes, briny olives, and creamy feta will create a truly delightful culinary experience.
These variations are just a starting point, and feel free to get creative and experiment with your own flavor combinations. Whether you prefer a zesty, spicy, or Mediterranean twist, these variations will elevate your cod loin recipe to new heights.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious cod loin recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. For a Mediterranean twist, you can serve it with a Greek salad or Mediterranean bean salad. If you prefer vegetarian sides, roasted broccoli or stuffed zucchini boats are great options. For starchy sides, consider mustard potato salad or Greek-style oven fries. To complete the meal, you can also add some dips like Greek eggplant dip or tzatziki with pita chips. The options are endless, so choose your favourite sides to enjoy with this flavorful cod dish.
For a refreshing and light accompaniment to this cod loin recipe, try serving it with a Greek salad. The crispness of the cucumbers, tanginess of the tomatoes, and briny olives will balance the richness of the cod. The Mediterranean flavours in the salad will complement the bold spices used in the cod recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tastes.
If you’re looking for a heartier option, consider serving the cod with mustard potato salad. The creaminess of the potatoes and the sharpness of the mustard will add depth to the dish. It’s a classic combination that never fails to impress.
“The crispness of the cucumbers, tanginess of the tomatoes, and briny olives will balance the richness of the cod.”
Serving Suggestions
With so many delicious side options, you can get creative and customize your meal to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re pescatarian, vegetarian, or simply love bold flavours, there’s a perfect side dish for you.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Greek Salad | A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, tossed in a tangy dressing. |
| Mediterranean Bean Salad | A protein-packed salad made with a variety of beans, bell peppers, red onions, and a zesty lemon dressing. |
| Roasted Broccoli | Tender broccoli florets roasted to perfection with garlic, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. |
| Stuffed Zucchini Boats | Halved zucchini stuffed with a mixture of quinoa, feta cheese, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. |
| Mustard Potato Salad | Boiled potatoes tossed with a creamy mustard dressing, red onions, and fresh dill. |
| Greek-style Oven Fries | Crispy oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with oregano, garlic, and lemon zest. |
| Greek Eggplant Dip | A smoky and tangy dip made with roasted eggplant, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Perfect with pita chips. |
| Tzatziki with Pita Chips | A cool and creamy yogurt dip with cucumber, garlic, and fresh herbs, served with crispy pita chips. |
These serving suggestions will elevate your cod loin recipe to a memorable and satisfying meal. Feel free to mix and match your favourite sides, and don’t forget to share the joy of this delicious dish with your loved ones.
Leftover Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftovers from this delicious cod loin recipe, there are a couple of options for storing and reheating them to maintain their flavor and quality.
Leftover Storage
To store the leftovers, place them in a shallow glass container with a tight lid and refrigerate. The cod loin can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days without compromising its taste.
Note: It’s essential to store the leftovers in a shallow container to ensure even cooling and prevent them from becoming soggy. The airtight lid will help retain the moisture and flavors of the cod loin.
Reheating
To reheat the leftovers, the best method is to use a medium-heated oven. Preheat your oven to around 325°F (163°C).
Note: The reheating time can vary depending on the thickness and size of the cod loin pieces.
Place the leftover cod loin in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. This will help prevent the fish from drying out while it reheats. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until the cod loin is just warmed through.
Note: Be careful not to overheat the cod loin to avoid drying out the fish.
After reheating, check the internal temperature of the cod loin using a meat thermometer. The fish should reach a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
Note: Reheating the cod loin may cause slight changes in texture, so it’s best to consume the leftovers on the day they are cooked for optimal flavor and quality.
If you prefer not to consume the leftovers within 2 days, you can freeze them for later use. However, it’s important to note that the texture of the fish may be affected after freezing. It is recommended to consume the frozen cod loin within 1 month for the best taste and texture.
Note: When freezing the cod loin, ensure it is properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
Looking for a delicious and healthy option for a flavorful dinner? Look no further than this easy cod loin recipe. The combination of Mediterranean flavors, bold spices, and tender cod fillets make this dish a crowd favorite. Whether you choose fresh or frozen cod, this recipe is sure to impress with its bold flavors and simplicity.
In just over 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal on the table. The quick cooking time makes it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, with its nutritious ingredients, this cod loin dish is a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal.
So why not give this recipe a try at your next dinner? Indulge in the deliciousness of this cod loin dish that perfectly blends Mediterranean flavors and bold spices. Your taste buds and health will both thank you for it!
FAQ
How long does it take to bake cod loin?
The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets, but in this recipe, the cod is baked for about 10 minutes at 400 degrees F.
What are some side dishes that go well with this cod loin recipe?
You can serve this cod loin recipe with a variety of sides, such as Greek salad, Mediterranean bean salad, roasted broccoli, stuffed zucchini boats, mustard potato salad, Greek-style oven fries, Greek eggplant dip, or tzatziki with pita chips.
Can I store and reheat leftovers from this cod loin recipe?
Yes, you can store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days in a shallow glass container with a tight lid. To reheat, use a medium-heated oven until just warmed through. However, keep in mind that reheating fish may slightly change the texture, so it’s best to consume the leftovers on the day they are cooked for optimal flavor and quality.
Can I freeze the leftovers from this cod loin recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1 month. However, note that the texture may be affected.
