If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the sea, look no further than this Baked Cod with Lemon, Garlic, and Spiced Coating Recipe. Imagine tender, flaky cod fillets kissed with a perfectly balanced mix of zesty lemon, rich garlic, and a vibrant, aromatic spiced coating that creates a delightful crispy crust. This recipe is not only a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients but also a way to elevate everyday cod into a memorable, restaurant-quality meal you’ll want to share with everyone you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The dish shows several pieces of golden-brown cooked fish with a crispy top layer covered with chopped green herbs like parsley, all sitting in a shiny, oily sauce with small bits of spices and herbs visible. The fish pieces are placed tightly in a black pan, with the sauce spreading around them. There is a lemon half on the bottom left corner, pale yellow on the inside. The fish has a textured, grilled look with visible layers of white fish meat under the crispy golden crust. The photo is shot closely from above with a white marbled surface barely visible around the pan edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an indispensable role in creating layers of flavor and texture that truly bring the Baked Cod with Lemon, Garlic, and Spiced Coating Recipe to life. Simple yet thoughtfully chosen, these ingredients ensure the fish is bursting with bright, savory, and warm spices in every bite.

Cod fillet (1.5 lb, 4-6 pieces): Fresh, flaky white fish that serves as the delicate canvas for the flavors.
Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness and beautiful green color as a finishing touch.
Fresh lemon juice (5 tbsp): Provides zesty acidity that brightens the entire dish and balances the richness.
Extra virgin olive oil (5 tbsp + 2 tbsp for searing): Brings richness and helps with browning for a gorgeous crust.
Butter (2 tbsp, melted): Adds a smooth, creamy undertone that pairs beautifully with garlic and spices.
Garlic cloves (5, minced): Infuses the fish with its iconic punch of savory aroma and flavor.
All-purpose flour (1/3 cup): Creates the base for the spiced coating to cling to the cod.
Ground coriander (1 tsp): Introduces a warm, citrusy note that complements the lemon perfectly.
Sweet Spanish paprika (3/4 tsp): Brings gentle smokiness and vibrant color to the coating.
Ground cumin (3/4 tsp): Adds earthy depth and subtle spice that makes the crust irresistible.
Salt (3/4 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and is essential for seasoning.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Gives just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.

How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon, Garlic, and Spiced Coating Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees F to ensure it’s ready for the fish once seared. While the oven is warming, gather your lemon sauce ingredients and coating mix separately. This little prep step is key to keeping the process smooth and your kitchen organized.

Step 2: Mix the Lemon Sauce

Combine fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and melted butter in a shallow bowl. Hold back the garlic for now—that will come later. This sauce will give the cod a bright, luscious base that ties together perfectly with the spices.

Step 3: Create the Spiced Coating

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour with ground coriander, sweet Spanish paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This blend forms the flavorful crust that beautifully contrasts the tender fish inside.

Step 4: Coat the Fish

Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels to help the coating stick. Dip each piece first into the lemon sauce, then into the spiced flour mixture. Give each fillet a gentle shake to remove excess flour, ensuring a crisp coating without clumps.

Step 5: Sear the Cod

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering but not smoking, add the cod fillets. Sear each side for about 2 minutes just to develop a little golden color. This quick sear locks in moisture and adds texture without cooking the fish through.

Step 6: Add Garlic and Bake

Mix minced garlic into the remaining lemon sauce and drizzle generously over the seared cod. Now transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork—about 10 minutes, though it’s good to start checking a bit earlier to avoid overcooking.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the fish for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve immediately so you get that perfect combination of crisp coating and juicy, tender cod.

How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon, Garlic, and Spiced Coating Recipe

The image shows a black cast iron pan on a white marbled surface. Inside the pan, there are four pieces of golden-brown cooked fish fillets with a slightly crispy texture. The fish is topped with finely chopped green herbs scattered evenly across the pieces. To the top right of the fish fillets, a half lemon sits in the pan. In the blurry background, there is a clear glass bowl filled with fresh salad including chunks of red tomato, green bell pepper slices, dark olives, and white cheese cubes. The light shines softly, highlighting the juicy and fresh look of the food. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the ideal garnish, lending a pop of green and a peppery freshness that cuts through the buttery, garlicky flavors. A lemon wedge on the side invites each diner to add an extra splash of brightness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of finely chopped chives or even some toasted pine nuts can add a lovely texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This baked cod shines when paired with simple, complementary sides. Think light and fresh—couscous tossed with herbs, garlic roasted baby potatoes, or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette. Steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice also bring balance and color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a memorable presentation, serve the cod on a bed of fluffy herb rice or creamy mashed cauliflower. Arrange the fillets atop a colorful vegetable ratatouille for a Mediterranean vibe. Using rustic serving dishes or wooden boards can also add a warm, inviting feel that matches the homestyle charm of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked cod can be kept fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last beautifully for up to 2 days. Storing promptly helps maintain the texture of the crispy coating as much as possible.

Freezing

Freezing cooked cod with the lemon, garlic, and spiced coating isn’t ideal because the texture of the crust might suffer once thawed. However, if you need to freeze, wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw slowly in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To bring back some of that fresh-baked crispness, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy and the fish rubbery. Keep an eye to prevent overcooking and dryness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before proceeding. Removing moisture helps the coating stick and ensures that beautiful crisp finish.

Is it necessary to sear the cod before baking?

Searing isn’t mandatory, but it really elevates the dish. The quick browning adds wonderful flavor and texture, and it helps the coating hold up better during baking.

Can I substitute the spices in the coating?

Of course! While coriander, paprika, and cumin give the recipe a distinct warmth and color, you can experiment with spices like turmeric, chili powder, or smoked paprika to suit your taste.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply swap the melted butter for extra olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. This swap won’t compromise the richness of the lemon garlic sauce at all.

What’s the best way to tell when the cod is done?

The best sign is that the fish flakes easily when gently pulled apart with a fork and is opaque throughout. Overcooking makes cod dry, so keep a close eye near the end of baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cod with Lemon, Garlic, and Spiced Coating Recipe has won a permanent spot in my kitchen rotation because it’s just that good—simple ingredients transforming into something truly special. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without fuss. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become your go-to fish recipe for flavor, ease, and that comforting “wow” factor everyone loves.