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Easy Herb-Crusted Baked Cod Recipe with Fresh Lemon Zest

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A simple, flavorful baked cod recipe featuring a fresh herb crust with lemon zest that creates a crispy, savory topping. Perfect for a quick, fuss-free dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skinless, boneless cod fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 large lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (about 50 g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine parsley, thyme, dill, lemon zest, minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and mix until evenly coated.
  3. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Press the herb mixture evenly onto the top side of each cod fillet, about 1/4 inch thick.
  5. Place the fillets crust side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cod flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden and crisp.
  7. Let rest for 2 minutes. Optionally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.

Notes

Pat the cod dry to ensure the herb crust sticks and crisps properly. Use fresh herbs for best flavor. If crust isn’t browning enough, broil for 1–2 minutes watching carefully. For gluten-free, substitute panko with almond flour or gluten-free crackers. Store herb crust mixture covered in fridge up to 24 hours. Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven to keep crust crisp; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked cod, herb crust, lemon zest, easy dinner, quick recipe, healthy fish, panko breadcrumbs, fresh herbs

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/easy-herb-crusted-baked-cod-recipe-with-fresh-lemon-zest-step-by-step/