Description
This Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a light yet indulgent dish, perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. The flaky cod is baked to perfection and served in a luscious coconut lemon cream sauce that’s both tangy and rich, with a touch of heat. This dish is a beautiful balance of flavors that pairs wonderfully with rice or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce For the Baked Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little color and flavor)
For the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or fresh chili (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle them with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using. Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce In a skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the coconut milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard (if using), and chili flakes (if you like heat). Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Pour the Sauce Over the Cod Once the sauce has thickened, pour it evenly over the cod fillets. Be sure to coat them well in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Bake the Cod Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish Remove the cod from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve immediately with the coconut lemon cream sauce poured over the top.
Notes
- Use Fresh Cod: Fresh cod fillets work best for this recipe, but you can also use frozen cod. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, skip the chili flakes or use a small amount to add just a hint of heat.
- Don’t Overcook the Cod: Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it while baking. Overcooking will result in dry fish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Seafood / Tropical Fusion