Lemony Herb-Crusted Cod with Parmesan Crunch Recipe
Lemony Herb-Crusted Cod with Parmesan Crunch is a bright and flavorful baked fish dish featuring tender cod fillets coated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture topped with a crunchy layer of parmesan cheese. This easy-to-make recipe offers a deliciously crispy and cheesy crust that perfectly complements the flaky, mild cod, making it ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or an elegant meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Crust
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Herb-Parmesan Crust: In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the herbs and lemon zest within the cheese.
- Coat the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil and a little lemon juice to help the crust adhere. Generously press the Parmesan herb mixture onto the top of each fillet to form a thick crust layer.
- Bake the Cod: Place the crusted cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the parmesan crust is golden and crisp.
- Serve: Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cod fillets that are about 1-inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute parsley and thyme with other fresh herbs like dill or basil according to your preference.
- The lemon zest adds brightness, so avoid skipping it for full flavor impact.
- Ensure not to overbake the fish to keep it moist and tender.
- This dish pairs well with light white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Keywords: cod, baked fish, lemon herb crust, parmesan crust, healthy seafood, easy dinner
