This creamy coconut lemon baked cod is a tasty dish that brings together fresh cod, rich coconut milk, and zesty lemon. It’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor!
I love how the fish stays so tender while baking. Plus, the creamy sauce is perfect for dipping some crusty bread—because who doesn’t love a little extra sauce action? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Fresh cod is the star here. If you can’t find cod, halibut or tilapia are great substitutes. They’ll both give you that flaky texture you’re after without sacrificing flavor.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk is best for a rich and creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use light coconut milk, but it won’t be as rich. Almond or soy milk can work in a pinch, but the flavor will change significantly.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon juice is a must for bright flavor. If you’re out of lemons, try using lime juice instead. Just be careful with the zest as it adds a nice aromatic quality that lemon juice alone won’t provide.
Garlic & Shallot: These aromatics enhance the dish’s flavor. If you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be a substitute for fresh garlic, and onion can replace shallots. Use 1/4 teaspoon of powder for each clove of garlic and a small onion for the shallot.
How Do I Ensure the Cod is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking cod just right can be tricky. You want it flaky and tender, not dry. Here are some tips:
- Thawing: If using frozen cod, make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on it; cook for 15-20 minutes. Cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Internal Temperature: Aim for 145°F (63°C) if you have a thermometer. This ensures safety and doneness without drying it out.
Using these steps will help your cod turn out moist and flavorful every time! Enjoy your dinner!
How to Make Creamy Coconut Lemon Baked Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fish:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle depth)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your cod gets cooked perfectly once you pop it in.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot, sautéing them until they become fragrant and translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove your skillet from the heat.
3. Prepare the Coconut Lemon Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, sautéed garlic and shallot (those lovely flavors), and include the smoked paprika if you’re using it. Add in salt and pepper to taste and stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Arrange the Cod:
Now, take your cod fillets and place them evenly spaced in a baking dish. It’s important they have room to cook properly without overlapping.
5. Pour the Sauce:
Pour that delicious coconut lemon sauce evenly over all the cod fillets. This sauce is going to keep the fish moist and flavorful while it bakes!
6. Bake the Cod:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Final Touches:
Once the cod is cooked, take it out of the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with some lemon slices for an extra zesty kick, and serve immediately. This dish is wonderful alongside steamed rice or a slice of crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Creamy Coconut Lemon Baked Cod
Can I Use Frozen Cod Fillets?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by letting them sit in the refrigerator overnight or placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for a quicker thaw.
How Can I Adjust the Flavor of the Sauce?
If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of fish sauce to the coconut milk mixture. This will give it an extra umami boost!
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This baked cod pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad also complements the dish nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to avoid drying out the cod.
