Baked Cod with Vegetables is a healthy and simple dish. It features tender baked fish topped or cooked with colorful vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. It’s perfect for a quick, light meal.
I like to add a squeeze of lemon on top. It makes everything taste fresh and bright! Sometimes I sprinkle a little herbs for extra flavor, but it’s great even plain.
If you want, serve it with some crusty bread or a side salad. It’s easy to customize and perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing weekend dinner.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod: I prefer fresh cod for its mild flavor and flaky texture. If you can’t find it, haddock works well as a substitute, or frozen cod is fine too—just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
Olive oil: A good drizzle of olive oil keeps the fish moist and adds flavor. If you don’t have olive oil, you can use melted butter or a light cooking spray for a similar effect.
Mixed vegetables: Use your favorites like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Frozen vegetables work too—just thaw and drain to avoid excess moisture.
Lemon: Adds brightness to the dish. If lemons are out of season, bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, but fresh gives a better clean flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of aroma. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder is a quick option—use about half the amount and add it to the vegetables during cooking.
How do I ensure my baked cod stays tender and flaky?
1. Preheat your oven properly to 400°F for even cooking.
2. Pat the fish dry to remove excess moisture, helping it bake evenly.
3. Use a light coating of oil or lemon juice on the fish to prevent drying out.
4. Bake until the fish flakes easily with a fork—usually 12-15 minutes for 1-inch thick pieces. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
How to Make Baked Cod with Vegetables?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes, Cooking: 20 minutes, Total: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the oven and vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange on a baking sheet.
2. Season the cod fillets
Rub the fillets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place lemon slices on top of each fillet.
3. Bake the vegetables and fish
Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish is opaque and vegetables are tender.
4. Serve the dish
Place the baked cod and vegetables on plates. Garnish with extra lemon if desired. Enjoy your meal!
