Baked Lemon Garlic Cod (mediterranean Style

• servings: Servings: 4
• total time: 16 minutes

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 150–180g each)

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon (zest + 2 tablespoons juice)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Lemon slices for garnish

Optional add-ins (highly recommended)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 tablespoons capers

A handful of sliced black olives

Directions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Make the marinade

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes.

Prepare the cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the baking dish in a single layer.

Season

Brush or spoon the marinade evenly over each fillet. If using tomatoes, capers, or olives, scatter them around and slightly over the fish.

Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center. Cooking time depends on thickness.

Finish

Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Add fresh lemon slices on top for extra brightness.

Serving suggestions

Serve with roasted vegetables, garlic sautéed spinach, quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil before serving for authentic flavor.