Creamy Lemon Parmesan Cod

Introduction

Creamy Lemon Parmesan Cod is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of fish with the rich flavors of lemon and Parmesan. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The creamy sauce coats the cod beautifully, making it a flavorful and satisfying choice for seafood lovers.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Cod fillets – 4 pieces
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Butter – 1 tablespoon
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Parmesan cheese – 1 cup, grated
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
Fresh parsley – for garnish

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or lightly coat it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Make the Lemon Parmesan Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

Coat the Cod with Sauce

Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spread the lemon Parmesan sauce evenly over the top of each fillet.

Bake the Cod

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Optional Broil Step

For a golden top, you may broil the cod for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serve the Dish

Remove from the oven and serve the cod warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or lemon slices.

Notes

Choosing Cod

You can use fresh or frozen cod fillets; if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

Alternative Seasoning

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or dill to the lemon Parmesan sauce for additional flavor.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Cooking Cod

Cooking cod effectively involves searing it to achieve a golden brown crust while ensuring the inside remains moist and flaky. Using a combination of butter and oil can help in achieving the perfect sear.

Making Creamy Sauce

Creating a creamy sauce typically involves combining heavy cream with sautéed ingredients, such as garlic and onion. Incorporating cheese, like Parmesan, enhances the richness and flavor of the sauce.

Infusing Lemon Flavor

Infusing lemon flavor can be done by using freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest during the cooking process. This adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the dish.

Garnishing

Garnishing with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, not only adds color but also freshens the dish’s flavor profile. A sprinkle of black pepper can also enhance the presentation.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of fish instead of cod?

Yes, you can substitute other firm white fish, such as tilapia or haddock, although cooking times may vary.

What can I serve with creamy lemon Parmesan cod?

This dish pairs well with side options like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before adding the fish to ensure it doesn’t separate.

Conclusion

This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Cod recipe is a delightful and simple dish that combines the rich flavors of Parmesan and lemon, creating a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the cod. It’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner, offering a balance of taste and ease of preparation. The ingredients meld together beautifully, resulting in a meal that is both satisfying and elegant.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Herb-Crusted Salmon

Try a herb-crusted salmon dish with a garlic and dill topping to create a fresh and savory alternative to cod.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

For a similar creamy texture, consider preparing creamy Tuscan chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Lemon garlic shrimp provides a quick and zesty seafood option that complements the flavors used in the cod dish.

Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta

For a vegetarian option, garlic butter mushroom pasta can offer the same creamy goodness paired with a different texture.

Parmesan Crusted Tilapia

If you enjoy the Parmesan flavor, parmesan-crusted tilapia is a fantastic choice that cooks similarly and provides a crispy exterior.