why make this recipe

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is an incredible dish that combines the delicate flavors of cod with a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The use of coconut milk adds a tropical twist, while the lemon juice brightens the flavors. Plus, it’s a healthy option packed with nutrients. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that impresses everyone at your table.

how to make Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Ingredients:

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
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)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

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.
Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Arrange the fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Prepare the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, ground cumin, turmeric (if using), and red pepper flakes. This sauce will infuse the cod with deep, creamy flavors as it bakes.
Pour the Sauce Over the Cod: Evenly pour the coconut lemon cream sauce over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is well coated.
Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as cod can dry out quickly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

how to serve Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce pairs well with a variety of sides. Steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement the dish nicely. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For an extra touch, you might consider serving it with a wedge of lemon on the side.

how to store Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

If you have leftovers, store the baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat the cod, as it may become dry.

tips to make Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Make sure to pat the cod fillets dry before seasoning for better flavor absorption.
Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
If you’re short on time, you can prep the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe. For a different flavor, try adding chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce. You can also substitute the cod with another mild-flavored fish like tilapia or haddock.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute cod with tilapia, haddock, or another white fish. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free. Just make sure your Dijon mustard is also labeled gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze cooked fish, as it may lose its texture when thawed. However, you can freeze the sauce separately for future use.

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce