Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

There’s something magical about tender, flaky cod nestled in a creamy, citrusy sauce with a hint of coconut—it’s comfort food with a tropical twist! This Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is perfect for weeknight dinners or an elegant meal to impress your guests. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to prepare!

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

• Light yet Creamy: The coconut milk and lemon juice create a luscious, velvety sauce that doesn’t feel heavy.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with omega-3-rich cod and wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings.
• Versatile: This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed veggies.

Ingredients for Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

• Baking dish: To hold the cod fillets and sauce.
• Small saucepan: For preparing the coconut lemon cream sauce.
• Whisk: To mix the sauce ingredients.
• Spoon or basting brush: To coat the cod with oil and spices.

How to Make Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Step 2: Season the Cod
3. Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce
5. In a small saucepan, heat the coconut milk over medium heat.
6. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
7. Optional: If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve the cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water, then whisk it into the sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine and Bake
8. Pour the warm coconut lemon cream sauce over the seasoned cod fillets in the baking dish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
10. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top.
11. Serve the baked cod with lemon wedges on the side, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
• Add a side of roasted asparagus, green beans, or a simple garden salad for extra veggies.

Tips for the Best Baked Cod

• Use Fresh Cod: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh cod fillets. Frozen cod works too; just thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook: Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
• Adjust the Sauce: For a tangier kick, add more lemon juice. Prefer a sweeter note? Stir in a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or on the stovetop. Avoid microwaving as it may make the fish rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a different fish instead of cod?
A: Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with haddock, tilapia, or even salmon. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q2: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free thanks to the coconut milk.

Q3: Can I freeze this dish?
A: It’s best to freeze just the cooked cod, not the sauce. Store the cod in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Make fresh sauce when reheating.

Conclusion: A Tropical Delight

This Tasty Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a creamy, flavorful dish that brings a hint of the tropics to your table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. Give it a try tonight and bask in the compliments!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 300 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 1g

Enjoy every forkful of this vibrant dish, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!

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