Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish balances the mild flavor of cod with a silky, tangy coconut lemon sauce that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s easy to prepare, gluten-free, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare Cod:
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Place fillets in the prepared baking dish and drizzle with olive oil or melted butter.
Make Coconut Lemon Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lemon juice and zest, garlic, ginger (if using), and honey or maple syrup.
Bake:
Pour sauce over the cod fillets.
Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Herbs: Use fresh dill or basil instead of parsley.
Creamier: Stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream for extra richness.
Citrus Twist: Add lime juice and zest along with or instead of lemon.
Other Fish: Use halibut, tilapia, or mahi-mahi fillets.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, thaw completely before cooking for best results.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead?

Yes, mix the sauce in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, naturally gluten-free.

Can I use light coconut milk?

Yes, but sauce will be thinner and less rich.

What sides go well?

Serve with jasmine rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

Can I bake this in foil packets?

Yes, for a steamed effect, wrap fillets and sauce in foil before baking.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

It’s already dairy-free if you use oil instead of butter.

Can I add vegetables to bake with the fish?

Yes, add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a deliciously light yet creamy dish that brings together tender fish and a bright, tropical sauce. Easy to prepare and full of fresh flavors, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal to impress.