If you’re after a scrumptious and healthy dish that’s easy to make, look no further than our lemon herb baked cod with asparagus. This guide will walk you through a simple yet elegant meal, combining the succulence of baked cod with the fresh crunch of asparagus – all seasoned with a lively blend of lemon and herbs. Read on for straightforward instructions and tips to nail this dish every time.
Key Takeaways
- The Lemon Herb Baked Cod with Asparagus recipe is a nutritious, low-carb, and gluten-free meal that is simple to prepare, featuring cod fillets and fresh vegetables like asparagus and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with herbs and lemon for a light and balanced flavor.
- This dish can be easily made on a single sheet pan with minimal cleanup, with a baking time of roughly 12-20 minutes at an oven temperature between 375F and 400F, making it an excellent option for a quick and stress-free evening meal.
- To complete the dining experience, pair this Lemon Herb Baked Cod with an assortment of sides such as Parmesan roasted cauliflower, creamy polenta, grilled vegetables, or a range of rice and potato dishes to match your dietary preferences.
Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus: A Perfect Pairing
Beloved for its mild flavor and perfectly baked flaky cod, the Lemon Herb Baked Cod with Asparagus is a dish that doesn’t overpower your taste buds. It’s a meal that is as delicious as it is nutritious, offering a host of health benefits from the vitamins, minerals, healthy omega-3 fats, and protein found in cod, and the extra virgin olive oil used in the recipe. This easy cod recipe is a blessing for those who want a hearty and healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
The dish incorporates asparagus and cherry tomatoes, selected for their crisp and seasonally fresh attributes. These vegetables perfectly complement the Lemon Herb Baked Cod, creating a balanced and delightful meal. Using fish fillets, like cod, ensures a tender and flaky texture in the final dish.
Ingredients for Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus
To embark on this culinary journey, you will need:
- 1 lb cod fillets
- 1 bunch asparagus sprigs (about 12)
- 6 oz cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Regarding the cod, it’s suggested to use cod fillets. When cooked properly, the fish flakes easily, providing a delightful texture and taste that is hard to resist. As for the asparagus, you can use regular asparagus or asparagus spears, depending on your preference and the specific recipe you are following.
The herbs incorporated in the Lemon Herb Baked Cod are:
- Thyme
- Dill
- Parsley
- Rosemary
- Sage
Additionally, lemon zest is added to the dish to give it a refreshing and zesty flavor that is simply irresistible.
Preparing the Cod and Asparagus
A straightforward and effective technique is required to prepare the asparagus for baking. Just pick up one stalk and hold it in the middle and at the end, then bend the stalk until it snaps. This easy method ensures that you have perfectly trimmed asparagus for your Lemon Herb Baked Cod dish.
Italian herbal seasoning, parsley, and garlic are the recommended seasonings for the cod and asparagus. These seasonings are chosen for their ability to complement and enhance the natural flavors of the cod and asparagus without overpowering them.
To prepare the cod for baking, follow these steps:
- Lightly dust the fillets in well-seasoned flour.
- Sear the fish and add your favorite seasoning.
- Brush the top of each fillet with olive oil.
- Press it into a crumb mixture.
- Place them in a baking dish, crust-side up.
- Bake until the fish is firm, which usually takes about 12-15 minutes.
Sheet Pan Dinner Magic: Cooking Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus
One of the greatest appeals of the Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus is that it’s a super easy, low carb, gluten-free sheet pan dinner. It’s a breeze to prepare and clean up, making it a convenient meal option for busy weekdays or when you simply want a fuss-free yet delicious meal.
After your cod and asparagus have been perfectly baked, remember to drizzle the leftover butter on top to enhance the flavors before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’ll have a dish that’s rich in flavor and leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds.
In just 20 minutes, you can prepare this delicious and nutritious Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus dish. It’s a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutritional value.
Arranging the Ingredients on the Baking Sheet
In arranging the ingredients on the baking sheet, follow these steps:
- Position the cod at the center.
- Bunch the asparagus around the cod.
- Leave a little space between each piece of fish and vegetables on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly.
The placement of the ingredients on the baking sheet can influence their cooking duration. This is due to the amount of heat and airflow they receive, which can make them cook faster or more evenly.
For cooking Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus, a half sheet pan, which usually measures 18 x 13 inches, is recommended.
Baking Time and Temperature
For baking the Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus:
- Adjust the oven temperature to range between 375F and 400F.
- The baking time for the dish is around 12-20 minutes. However, this can vary based on how well your oven works and the size of the cod fillets.
- The internal temperature of perfectly baked cod should be around 130-140°F (54-60°C).
Summary
In conclusion, the Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious meal option that’s easy to prepare. It’s an excellent choice for a quick weekday dinner or a fancy weekend meal, offering a delightful blend of flavors and a host of health benefits.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is a great addition to your culinary repertoire. So why wait? It’s time to roll up your sleeves and whip up a fantastic Lemon Herb Baked Cod and Asparagus dish that you and your loved ones will surely enjoy.
