Easy Ginger Soy Cod

Looking for a light, flavorful, and quick dinner? This Easy Ginger Soy Cod is a perfect choice. Tender, flaky cod is marinated in a savory blend of ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, then baked or pan-seared to perfection. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice and vegetables for a balanced meal you can enjoy any night of the week.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthy & Light – Lean protein with low fat and carbs.
Bursting with Flavor – The ginger-soy marinade brings an Asian-inspired twist.
Quick & Easy – Ready in 25 minutes from start to finish.
Versatile – Works great with other white fish like halibut or tilapia.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Reheats well for next-day meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cod:
4 cod fillets (about 5 oz each)
1 tbsp olive oil (for searing or baking)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)

For the Ginger Soy Marinade:
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tsp fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp lime juice
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Serving:
Steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice
Steamed or sautéed bok choy, green beans, or broccoli
Lime wedges for garnish

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Zip-top bag or shallow dish for marinating
Skillet or baking dish
Spatula or tongs
Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, garlic, lime juice, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Marinate the Cod
Place cod fillets in a zip-top bag or shallow dish.
Pour marinade over the fish and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes in the fridge.
Do not marinate for too long as the acid can break down the delicate fish texture.

Step 3: Cook the Cod (Pan-Sear or Bake)

Pan-Sear Method:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Remove cod from marinade (reserve a few tablespoons) and pat dry slightly.
Sear each fillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Brush with reserved marinade during the last minute.

Bake Method:
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Place cod in a baking dish, drizzle with reserved marinade, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until opaque and flaky.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Transfer cooked cod to serving plates.
Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges.
Serve with steamed rice and veggies of your choice.

Tips for Perfect Cod
Don’t Overcook – Cod is done when it flakes easily and is opaque.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh ginger and garlic provide the best flavor.
Dry Before Cooking – Patting the cod dry helps achieve a better sear.
Double the Marinade – For extra flavor, reserve some for drizzling.

Serving Suggestions
Rice Bowls – Serve cod over jasmine or cauliflower rice with veggies and sauce.
Taco Night – Flake the cod and serve in lettuce cups or low-carb tortillas.
Asian-Inspired Plate – Add pickled cucumbers and a boiled egg for a bento-style meal.
Light Dinner – Pair with a fresh salad and miso soup.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Avoid freezing if already cooked, as cod can become mushy.

Reheating:
Skillet: Warm gently over medium-low heat with a splash of water or reserved marinade.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals at medium power to prevent overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen cod?
   Yes, just thaw it completely and pat dry before marinating.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.
3. Can I substitute the honey?
   You can use maple syrup or a keto sweetener like erythritol for a low-carb option.
4. What if I don’t have sesame oil?
   Use a neutral oil like olive or avocado oil and add a bit of sesame seeds for flavor.

Final Thoughts
This Easy Ginger Soy Cod is a delightful way to bring Asian-inspired flavors to your dinner table without fuss. It’s light, nutritious, and packed with bold, savory flavors that are sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this dish will deliver every time.

Give it a try and let me know how you like it! Share your creations on Pinterest and tag me so I can see your delicious results.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 230 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 7g | Fat: 11g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 480mg

Print