Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe
Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce offers a delightful combination of flaky, tender cod fillets baked in a rich and zesty coconut lemon cream, inspired by Caribbean and Southeast Asian flavors. This healthy, indulgent dinner recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with fresh, vibrant taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean, Southeast Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Cod
- 4 cod fillets, fresh or thawed frozen cod works best
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground recommended
- 1 teaspoon paprika, consider smoked paprika for extra flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, to prevent sticking
For the Sauce
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (light coconut milk can be a lower-calorie option)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, for brightness
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (only the yellow part)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh cloves preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, for tanginess
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin, for warmth
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric, optional, for color
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional, adjust for spice preference
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the Cod: Pat dry the cod fillets with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Arrange the seasoned fillets in the greased baking dish.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, ground cumin, turmeric (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
- Coat the Cod: Pour the prepared coconut lemon cream sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is generously coated.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve: Serve the baked cod with your choice of sides, such as quinoa or steamed vegetables, for a complete, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Serve with a side of quinoa or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor profile.
- Light coconut milk can be substituted to reduce calories.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Ensure cod fillets are evenly spaced in the baking dish to cook uniformly.
