Name: Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 2 lemons (one for juice and one for zest); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)

Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of flaky cod fillets with a creamy coconut lemon sauce creates a wonderfully balanced dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s easy to prepare and cooks in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. The coconut milk sauce is light, creamy, and full of bright citrus flavors, complementing the cod perfectly.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
2 lemons (one for juice and one for zest)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil and arrange the cod fillets in a single layer. Ensure the fillets are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.

3. Make the Sauce:

In a mixing bowl, add the coconut milk, the juice and zest of one lemon, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the sauce is well combined.

4. Pour the Sauce:

Generously pour the coconut lemon sauce over the cod fillets, ensuring the fish is well covered. This will allow the flavors to infuse into the cod as it bakes.

5. Bake the Cod:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The sauce should be bubbling and slightly thickened around the edges.

6. Garnish:

Once the cod is fully cooked, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

7. Serve:

Serve the baked cod warm over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa. The sauce will drench the grains, creating a delicious and flavorful base to complement the fish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Herb Variations: You can experiment with other fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or dill for different flavor profiles.
Different Fish: While cod works wonderfully for this dish, you can substitute it with other white fish like tilapia or haddock.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the fish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a little added coconut milk to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just make sure to thaw them properly before baking to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe without coconut milk?

If you’re not a fan of coconut milk, you can substitute it with heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the baking dish before baking. These vegetables will absorb the sauce and add extra flavor and nutrition.

4. Can I use a different fish?

Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish like tilapia, halibut, or haddock. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fish fillets.

5. How do I know when the cod is done?

The cod is done when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and assemble the dish in advance, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. However, it’s best to bake it fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

7. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle instead of fresh lemons?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

8. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more spice, incorporate a sliced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce, or top with red pepper flakes just before serving.

9. Can I serve this dish with a different side?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a lighter meal.

10. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is already dairy-free due to the coconut milk. Make sure to check the ingredients of your fish stock or broth if you’re using a non-dairy alternative.

Conclusion

This Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. The combination of creamy coconut milk, tangy lemon, and fresh ginger gives the dish a unique flavor that complements the tender cod beautifully. Whether served over rice or quinoa, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!