Hearty Lemon and Butter Cod
Category: Fish and Seafood Recipes
Serving Size: 3
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that offers both freshness and richness, look no further than this Hearty Lemon and Butter Cod. This simple yet flavorful recipe delivers a tender, flaky cod fillet, infused with the bright zest of lemon and the savory depth of butter and thyme. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, the preparation is easy, and the result is always satisfying. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal effort. The combination of butter, lemon, and thyme enhances the delicate cod, making every bite a burst of deliciousness.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this heartwarming dish:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Salted butter, divided | 4 tablespoons |
| Fresh thyme sprigs, divided | 4 sprigs |
| Fresh lemon juice, divided | 4 teaspoons |
| Cod fillets (6 ounces each) | 3 fillets |
| Salt to taste | To taste |
Directions
-
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures the cod cooks quickly while retaining its moisture. -
Season the Cod
Gently season each cod fillet with salt on both sides. This will enhance the flavor and complement the buttery, lemony goodness. -
Prepare the Foil
Cut four pieces of foil, each large enough to fold into a pouch around the cod fillets (about three times the size of each fillet). This method steams the fish, locking in moisture and flavor. -
Assemble the Pouches
Place one seasoned cod fillet in the center of each foil piece. Top each fillet with a portion of butter, fresh thyme sprigs, and a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. The combination of butter, lemon, and thyme will create a mouthwatering sauce that infuses the fish as it bakes. -
Fold and Seal the Foil
Carefully fold the edges of the foil up around the cod, sealing each pouch tightly. The foil will trap the steam, ensuring the cod stays juicy and tender while it cooks. -
Bake the Cod
Place the foil pouches on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. The cod will steam within the foil, cooking perfectly while absorbing all the flavors from the butter, lemon, and thyme. -
Let the Steam Escape
Once the pouches are done baking, carefully open them to release the steam. Be cautious as the steam will be hot, and it will carry the delicious aromas of lemon and thyme. -
Serve and Enjoy
Your Hearty Lemon and Butter Cod is now ready to be served! Enjoy the tender fish with a side of vegetables, potatoes, or your favorite salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Hearty Lemon and Butter Cod is packed with nutrients, offering a balanced meal that’s rich in protein and low in carbohydrates.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 284 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Protein | 32g |
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy (butter) and fish (cod), making it unsuitable for individuals with dairy or seafood allergies. If you need an alternative, you can use plant-based butter and opt for a different type of fish fillet.
Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten-based ingredients.
- Low-Carb: With only 1 gram of carbohydrates per serving, this recipe is perfect for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
- High-Protein: Packed with 32 grams of protein per serving, this dish is an excellent choice for those seeking to increase their protein intake.
Tips and Advice
- Cod Substitutes: If you can’t find cod, you can substitute it with other firm white fish such as tilapia, halibut, or sole. Just ensure the fish fillets are of similar thickness for even cooking.
- Adding Vegetables: To make the meal more substantial, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli. These will pair wonderfully with the flavors of the fish.
- Serving Suggestions: For a complete meal, serve with a side of rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. You can also drizzle the lemon-butter sauce from the foil over your side dishes for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Hearty Lemon and Butter Cod is a straightforward, delicious dish that combines fresh ingredients with simple preparation techniques. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The tender cod, infused with butter, lemon, and thyme, will leave everyone at the table craving more. Best of all, it’s healthy, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Try it today and experience the delightful balance of flavors in every bite!
