Crispy Herb-Crusted Lemon Cod: A Gourmet Meal Made Easy

Take your dinner table to the next level with this Crispy Herb-Crusted Lemon Cod recipe. This dish is the perfect blend of light, flaky cod topped with a golden, aromatic crust infused with zesty lemon and fresh herbs. Easy to prepare yet elegant enough for entertaining, this meal is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 fresh cod fillets (6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Herb Crust:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish:

• Lemon slices
• Fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season the Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, parsley, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture generously over the cod fillets, ensuring each piece is well coated.

Step 3: Prepare the Herb Crust

1. In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and olive oil.
2. Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the seasoned cod, pressing it gently to adhere.

Step 4: Bake the Cod

1. Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
2. To achieve a perfectly golden crust, broil for an additional 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Serving Ideas

1. Serve the cod garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices for an added burst of color and flavor.
2. Pair with roasted asparagus, buttery mashed potatoes, or a fresh arugula salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Pro Tips

• Always use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. If frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
• Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil for a unique twist on the classic herb crust.
• For an extra crunch, lightly toast the panko breadcrumbs before mixing with the other crust ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crispy breadcrumb crust adds a satisfying texture to the tender cod.
• Bright lemon juice and zest enhance the delicate flavor of the fish.
• It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Wine Pairing Suggestion

A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of this dish, making it a perfect match for your meal.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Herb-Crusted Lemon Cod recipe is a showstopper that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its fresh, vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a regular on your menu. Try it tonight and treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy dinner at home!