If you’re searching for a dish that’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavor, Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce is about to become your new go-to. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining, with tender, flaky cod fillets crowned by a creamy, zesty sauce that’s downright irresistible. The bright punch of lemon and aromatic dill give this dish its signature touch, making every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just hoping to eat a little lighter, this baked cod will win you over with its simplicity and elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce is its short, straightforward ingredient list. Each component plays a starring role, contributing everything from subtle heat to creamy richness or a burst of citrus. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you won’t want to skip a single thing:
- Cod Fillets: The main event! Look for fresh, boneless fillets for the best results—cod’s mild flavor is a perfect canvas for the zesty sauce.
- Olive Oil: Adds moisture and a touch of richness, helping the cod stay tender while baking.
- Garlic Powder: Gives a mild, savory depth to the fish without overpowering it.
- Paprika: Offers just enough warmth and color for an inviting (and appetizing) finish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavor of the cod and balancing the sauce.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: The base of the sauce, making it creamy yet light with a delightful tang.
- Mayonnaise: Adds extra silkiness and richness to the sauce without being heavy.
- Lemon Juice: Brings brightness and a refreshing citrus zing that pairs beautifully with both the sauce and the fish.
- Lemon Zest: Packs a punch of pure lemon flavor with zero bitterness—don’t skip this!
- Fresh Dill (chopped): The unmistakable cool, herby note that gives the sauce its signature flavor.
- Lemon Wedges for Serving: Perfect for squeezing over the finished dish and adding an extra pop of acidity just before serving.
How to Make Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)—that’s the sweet spot for turning cod wonderfully tender without drying it out. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this keeps cleanup easy and ensures the fish won’t stick. The parchment also helps keep the cod moist by trapping a bit of steam.
Step 2: Arrange and Season the Cod
Place your cod fillets in an even layer on the prepared sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil, making sure each piece gets a glossy coat. Now sprinkle over garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These simple seasonings add depth and ensure every bite is flavorful, but the real star—the sauce—is yet to come.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Cod is ready when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork; watch it closely, as fish cooks quickly. This short bake time guarantees juicy, tender fillets that taste fresh and clean. If your fillets are particularly thick or thin, adjust the time by a minute or two for perfect results.
Step 4: Whip Up the Lemon-Dill Sauce
While the cod is baking, mix up your Lemon-Dill Sauce. In a small bowl, stir together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped fresh dill. Stir until it’s creamy and everything is well combined. This sauce only takes a moment but transforms Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce from simple to spectacular!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cod is finished, plate it up and spoon generous swirls of the creamy sauce alongside or on top. A final flourish of fresh lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to tailor their dish with a bit of bright citrus, tying the whole plate together. Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce is best enjoyed hot, with the sauce cool and refreshing for the perfect contrast.
How to Serve Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Garnishes
The finishing touches make this dish truly sing. Scatter a little extra fresh dill over the top for even more aroma, or add a few paper-thin slices of lemon for a beautiful pop of color. Microgreens or a pinch of flaky sea salt can also add a special restaurant-style edge—feel free to get creative!
Side Dishes
Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce is wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. Try serving it with fluffy white rice, a crisp green salad, or some roasted potatoes to soak up any extra sauce. Lightly steamed green beans or asparagus make great partners too, keeping the meal fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Plate the cod over a bed of wilted spinach or herby couscous, then drizzle the sauce in elegant swirls. Layer it in lettuce wraps for a fun, lighter take, or serve it family-style in a big dish with lemon wedges and herbs scattered everywhere for a sunny, welcoming effect. Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce adapts to whatever mood or company you have!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce, let the cod cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the fish and sauce separately in the fridge; this helps preserve both their flavors and textures. Properly stored, leftovers will stay tasty for up to two days.
Freezing
While the cod itself can be frozen, the sauce is best enjoyed fresh—Greek yogurt and mayonnaise don’t always thaw well. To freeze the cod, wrap it tightly and keep for up to one month. When you’re ready to eat, whip up a fresh batch of the lemon-dill sauce for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce, warm the cod gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven until it’s just heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the fish from drying out. Add the sauce after reheating, serving it cool or at room temperature for a delicious contrast to the warm fish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before baking. This helps the seasonings stick and ensures the fillets cook evenly, resulting in the best possible Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the sauce?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, try using sour cream or regular plain yogurt. Keep in mind, Greek yogurt lends a lovely tang and thick texture that pairs perfectly with baked cod, so the results may differ slightly with substitutes.
Can I prepare the lemon-dill sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The sauce can be whisked together a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it sit out for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off and let the flavors shine. It’s a time-saving way to make Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce even easier for dinner parties.
What other fish work well with this sauce?
While cod is a classic choice, the lemon-dill sauce also pairs beautifully with other mild white fish like haddock, tilapia, or even baked salmon. It’s a versatile sauce that complements all sorts of seafood, so feel free to get creative!
How can I add extra flavor to the cod?
Try marinating the fillets in olive oil, lemon juice, and a bit of dill for 15 minutes before baking. This step infuses the fish with even more aromatic flavor and makes your Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce even more mouthwatering. A touch of fresh herbs or a sprinkle of capers also works beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about a meal that’s both easy and elegant, and Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce is just that. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try the next time you want a dinner that feels like a treat but comes together with minimal fuss. It’s sure to brighten your table and leave everyone reaching for seconds!
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Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delight your taste buds with this flavorful Baked Cod with Lemon-Dill Sauce recipe. Tender cod fillets seasoned to perfection and served with a creamy, tangy sauce make for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Lemon-Dill Sauce:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill (chopped)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cod: Place the cod fillets on the prepared sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh dill. Stir until smooth.
- Serve: Serve the baked cod with the lemon-dill sauce on the side and garnish with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the cod in olive oil, lemon juice, and dill for 15 minutes before baking.
- This sauce also pairs well with salmon or grilled chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
