Description
This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner idea for any weeknight. Ready in under 45 minutes, the creamy coconut milk and fresh lemon juice bring out the best in tender cod fillets, creating a dish that’s light yet indulgent. Ideal for those looking for a healthy, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly option, this dish is versatile and perfect for busy nights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
4 Cod fillets
2 tbsp Olive oil (or coconut oil)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk (full-fat for best texture)
1 Lemon (zested and juiced)
2 cloves Garlic (minced)
Optional: Fresh ginger or shallots, minced
Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, lemon slices, red pepper flakes, dill or cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C) or 400 °F (200 °C), depending on your preference.
- Season the cod fillets: Pat the fish dry and season with salt and black pepper. Place the fillets in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Make the sauce: In a small pan, heat olive or coconut oil and sauté minced garlic (and shallots or ginger, if using) until fragrant.
- Add coconut milk: Stir in the coconut milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and thicken slightly.
- Assemble the dish: Pour the sauce evenly over the cod fillets.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes (or 25 minutes, if needed), until the cod flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- Garnish: Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley, herbs, or lemon slices.
Notes
- Fish alternatives: You can substitute cod with haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or curry paste to the sauce for a kick.
- Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes in the last 5 minutes of baking for added flavor and nutrition.
- Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or a light cucumber salad for a healthier twist.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking