Baked Lemon Herb Cod with Asparagus is one of those recipes that immediately won the hearts of my family. It was a delightful surprise to see everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, savoring each bite with genuine enthusiasm. The delicate flavors of the cod, beautifully enhanced by the fresh citrusy notes and aromatic herbs, paired perfectly with the tender-crisp asparagus. This dish not only offers a burst of flavors but also a sense of elegance that can easily transform an ordinary dinner into a special occasion. Every time I prepare it, it feels like a warm embrace, a comforting meal that brings everyone together around the table. It’s simple yet sophisticated, and that’s what makes it so special in our household.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Baked Lemon Herb Cod with Asparagus, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (around 6 ounces each)
- 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons of lemon zest
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Baked Lemon Herb Cod with Asparagus:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle half of the lemon herb mixture over the fish, ensuring each fillet is well-coated.
- Arrange the asparagus spears around the cod fillets. Drizzle the remaining lemon herb mixture over the asparagus.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve garnished with lemon slices, if desired.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe serves 4 people. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories.
Preparation Time
Preparing this Baked Lemon Herb Cod with Asparagus takes about 10 minutes of active preparation time, with an additional 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll have this delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes.
How to Serve
- Serve the cod and asparagus with a side of fluffy white rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Add a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to complement the dish.
- Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Consider adding a slice of garlic bread on the side for a more filling meal.
- For a touch of spice, serve with a small dish of red pepper flakes on the side.
Additional Tips
- Choose fresh cod: Freshness is key for this dish. Look for cod with a firm texture and a mild scent.
- Room temperature ingredients: Allow the cod and asparagus to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to swap or add herbs like thyme or basil for a different flavor profile.
- Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on the cod while it’s in the oven. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Use a meat thermometer: The internal temperature of the cod should reach 145°F (63°C) when done.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen cod for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen cod. Make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
- What other vegetables can I use instead of asparagus? You can substitute asparagus with green beans, broccoli, or zucchini.
- Is it possible to use other types of fish? Absolutely! This recipe works well with haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
- How can I make this dish dairy-free? This recipe is already dairy-free, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy products.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prep the lemon herb mixture and trim the asparagus a few hours beforehand to save time.
