Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish. The cod is baked in a mixture of fresh dill, lemon, and olive oil, producing tender, flaky fish with a hint of citrus. This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa for a balanced meal.

Ingredients:
4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, sliced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” — Auguste Escoffier

Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Cod:

Place the cod fillets on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Arrange lemon slices on top of the fish and sprinkle with fresh dill.

Bake the Cod:

Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Serve:

Serve with lemon wedges and a side of your favorite vegetables or grains.

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 250
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 400mg

Tips for Perfect Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill:

1. Don’t Overcook the Fish: Cod cooks quickly and can become dry if overcooked. Keep an eye on the fillets and check for flakiness with a fork. Once the fish flakes easily, it’s done.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh dill for a more vibrant flavor. You can also add fresh thyme or basil to the dish for variety, but dill pairs particularly well with cod.
3. Try Adding Other Citrus: For an added twist, you can use orange or lime juice and zest along with the lemon. The citrus will brighten up the flavors of the fish.
4. Skin-On or Skinless: If you prefer, you can leave the skin on the cod fillets for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to check if the skin is edible (most cod fillets have skin that’s easy to remove once cooked).
5. Make a Sauce: You can easily turn this into a creamy dish by making a lemon-dill sauce. Mix Greek yogurt or sour cream with lemon juice, dill, garlic, and a pinch of salt for a quick and creamy topping.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill:

• Healthy and Light: Cod is a low-calorie, lean protein that’s great for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. The dish is simple and low in carbs, making it perfect for light meals.
• Easy and Quick: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It comes together in under 30 minutes, with minimal prep time required.
• Flavorful: The combination of lemon and dill gives this dish a fresh and aromatic flavor, while the olive oil ensures the fish stays moist and tender.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, sides, or sauces to suit your preferences.

Variations:

• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
• Herb Variation: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
• Crispier Texture: If you prefer a crispy texture, you can broil the cod for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

This Baked Cod with Lemon and Dill recipe is a simple, flavorful, and nutritious way to enjoy fish. It’s an excellent option for those seeking a healthy dinner that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.