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Lemon Herb Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe


  • Author: Mariam
  • Total Time: 35 to 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Baked Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets baked with vibrant cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh thyme. Enhanced with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a hint of red pepper flakes, it is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The finishing touch of fresh parsley and lemon wedges adds a burst of fresh flavor.


Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 cod fillets, about 1 inch thick
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 lemon, sliced, plus wedges for serving
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed, unpeeled
  • 2 thyme sprigs
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Other Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Arrange an oven rack in the center position and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the cod evenly.
  2. Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure proper searing and seasoning adherence. Season all sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Prepare Baking Dish: In a 13 x 9-inch baking dish, combine the sliced lemon, smashed unpeeled garlic cloves, thyme sprigs, cherry tomatoes, extra-virgin olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss everything gently to coat evenly and spread into an even layer for even roasting.
  4. Arrange Cod in Dish: Nestle the seasoned cod fillets into the prepared baking dish amongst the tomato and lemon mixture, ensuring they are partially immersed for flavor absorption.
  5. Bake the Cod: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cod turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, or the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This should take approximately 25 to 30 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets.
  6. Finish and Serve: Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the finely chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve the cod immediately with lemon wedges on the side, and spoon the flavorful pan sauce over the fish for maximum taste.

Notes

  • Patting the fish dry is essential to help seasonings stick and improve texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the cod reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F.
  • If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme can be used but use about one-third the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
  • The pan sauce from the baking dish is flavorful, so be sure to spoon it over the fish when serving.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes slightly based on preference.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked cod, healthy fish recipe, lemon baked fish, easy seafood dinner, cod with cherry tomatoes