This baked cod in coconut lemon cream sauce is light, comforting, and full of bright flavor. Tender cod fillets bake gently in a silky coconut milk sauce with fresh lemon and garlic, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that still feels special. If you enjoy simple seafood dishes like crispy baked salmon , this recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick dinner: Ready in about 30 minutes.
- Light but satisfying: Creamy sauce without feeling heavy.
- One pan: Easy cleanup with minimal prep.
- Versatile: Pairs well with rice, vegetables, or potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb cod fillets, patted dry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place the cod fillets in the dish and season evenly with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and paprika.
- Pour the sauce over the cod, making sure the fish is mostly covered.
- Bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes, until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Spoon the sauce over the fish and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Swap cod for haddock or halibut if needed.
- Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or Italian pasta salad for a complete meal.
Substitutions
If coconut milk is not your favorite, heavy cream works well, though the sauce will be richer. Lime juice can replace lemon for a slightly different citrus note.
Serving Suggestions
This baked cod in coconut lemon cream sauce pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or simple sides like roasted delicata squash . For a seafood-forward dinner, add garlic butter shrimp to the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before baking to avoid excess liquid.
Is this dish dairy-free?
Yes, as long as coconut milk is used instead of cream.
More to Try
- Chicken Piccata with Lemon and Capers
- Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp over Mashed Potatoes
- White Chicken Chili
Conclusion
This baked cod in coconut lemon cream sauce is an easy, flavorful way to bring seafood to your weekly dinner rotation. With minimal prep and bright, creamy flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
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Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This baked cod in coconut lemon cream sauce is light, comforting, and full of bright flavor. Tender cod fillets bake gently in a silky coconut milk sauce with fresh lemon and garlic, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that still feels special.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb cod fillets, patted dry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place the cod fillets in the dish and season evenly with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and paprika.
- Pour the sauce over the cod, making sure the fish is mostly covered.
- Bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes, until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Spoon the sauce over the fish and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat. Swap cod for haddock or halibut if needed. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or Italian pasta salad. Coconut milk can be replaced with heavy cream for a richer version. Lime juice works as a citrus substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: baked cod, coconut milk, lemon cream sauce, seafood dinner, easy fish recipe