Description
This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream is a flavorful and light dish that pairs delicate cod fillets with a creamy coconut and lemon sauce. It’s simple, yet indulgent, and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.
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Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the fillets and sear for about 2 minutes per side until lightly browned (they do not need to be fully cooked at this point). Remove the fillets and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Coconut Lemon Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the coconut milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 3: Bake the Cod
- Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the fish.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and is fully cooked through.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve the cod fillets with the coconut lemon cream sauce spooned over the top. This pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
Do not overcook the cod – Cod can become dry if overcooked, so check it after about 10 minutes to ensure it’s tender and flaky.
Coconut Milk – For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk. Light coconut milk can also work but will give a less creamy result.
Add Heat – If you like a little spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Thicker Sauce – If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer to reduce and thicken, or add a little cornstarch slurry.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American