If you're searching for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner option, look no further than this Easy Baked Cod with Spring Vegetables! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant and flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends alike. Picture perfectly flaky cod fillets nestled among tender asparagus and juicy cherry tomatoes, all drizzled with olive oil and brightened by zesty lemon slices. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a burst of color to your dinner table. Ready to dive into a culinary delight that’s as simple as it is scrumptious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better golden crust and prevents steaming.
- Season the cod fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
- Trim the woody ends of the asparagus and wash both asparagus and cherry tomatoes thoroughly.
- Arrange the cod fillets in the center of the prepared baking sheet, leaving space around each fillet.
- Scatter the asparagus and cherry tomatoes around the cod fillets. Drizzle everything with olive oil, ensuring even coverage.
- Place lemon slices on top of the cod fillets and around the vegetables to infuse citrus flavor during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the fish to finish cooking and juices to redistribute.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired. Squeeze additional fresh lemon juice over the dish for extra brightness.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prep your vegetables and season the cod fillets in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
- Don’t Skip Drying the Fish: Patting the cod fillets dry is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust. It helps to prevent steaming and ensures a delightful texture.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the cod and vegetables, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the cod while it bakes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the dish even further. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a refreshing brightness that complements the meal beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 65mg
