If you’re looking for a simple yet incredibly delicious way to prepare fish, this Easy Greek Baked Cod is a must-try. It’s light, flaky, and packed with Mediterranean flavors from garlic, lemon, olive oil, and a touch of oregano. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and easy – Minimal prep, and the oven does the work!
- Healthy and nutritious – A lean, protein-packed meal with heart-healthy olive oil.
- Bursting with flavor – The lemon, garlic, and herbs create the perfect Mediterranean taste.
Ingredients
(A quick preview—find the full ingredient list below!)
- Fresh cod fillets
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Fresh lemon juice
- Oregano and parsley
- Cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Feta cheese (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready when the fish goes in.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Cod
Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and brush generously with the marinade.
Step 4: Add Extra Flavor
Scatter cherry tomatoes around the fish and crumble a little feta cheese on top for extra Mediterranean goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh fish – Fresh cod works best, but frozen cod (thawed properly) works too.
- Don’t overbake – Cod cooks quickly, so check at the 12-minute mark to prevent dryness.
- Add a crispy topping – Sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil for a little crunch.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap the cod – This works beautifully with haddock, halibut, or sea bass.
- Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add olives – Kalamata olives bring even more Greek-inspired flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- With a side of rice or quinoa – A simple grain balances the dish beautifully.
- Over a Greek salad – Serve the fish on top of a fresh salad for a light meal.
- With warm pita and tzatziki – A delicious way to complete the Mediterranean experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a low oven (300°F) for about 5 minutes to prevent drying out.
- Not freezer-friendly – Cod is best enjoyed fresh!
FAQs
- Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. - How do I know when the fish is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). - Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Just leave out the feta cheese. - What can I use instead of oregano?
Thyme or basil are great substitutes for a slightly different flavor.
Conclusion
This Easy Greek Baked Cod is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress with its fresh, zesty Mediterranean taste. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy a light, satisfying dinner!
PrintEasy Greek Baked Cod – A Light and Flavorful Mediterranean Dish
This Easy Greek Baked Cod is a light, flaky, and flavorful dish infused with Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, lemon, garlic, and oregano. Quick to prepare and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect healthy weeknight dinner. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 fresh cod fillets
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Cod: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and brush generously with the marinade.
- Add Extra Flavor: Scatter cherry tomatoes around the fish and crumble feta cheese on top if using.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use fresh cod for the best results, but properly thawed frozen cod works too.
- Check for doneness at 12 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg