Description
This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce recipe features tender cod fillets baked to perfection in a rich and tangy coconut-based sauce infused with fresh lemon, garlic, and aromatic spices. It’s a flavorful and healthy seafood dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color and warmth)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture, which ensures better browning and prevents soggy fish. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the full-fat coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, ground cumin, turmeric (if using), and red pepper flakes. This creamy sauce will infuse the fish with bright, tangy, and subtle spicy flavors as it bakes.
- Pour the Sauce Over the Cod: Evenly pour the coconut lemon cream sauce over the seasoned cod fillets, making sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor and moisture during baking.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook to prevent the cod from drying out.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top as a bright garnish and serve immediately with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce; light coconut milk may result in a thinner sauce.
- You can substitute cod with other firm white fish like haddock, halibut, or pollock.
- Allowing the cod to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, keeping the fish moist.
- Serve with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
